NTA to deploy CISF security at offices following NEET exam leak scandal

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has decided to deploy CISF personnel at its newly relocated office to enforce stringent security protocols in confidential sections, officials confirmed. The decision follows the high-profile NEET-UG examination paper leak that triggered nationwide student protests and contributed to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

The paper leak exposed critical lapses in the NTA's security infrastructure. According to a Central Bureau of Investigation chargesheet, three subject matter experts were identified as primary sources of the breach. The investigation revealed that neither security screening nor frisking procedures were implemented for experts entering or exiting the confidential section of the NTA's premises—a significant oversight that facilitated the leak.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of a task force led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani shortly after Pradhan's resignation to recommend comprehensive reforms aimed at preventing future exam system compromises. The panel's recommendations are still awaited.

The CISF deployment represents an immediate remedial measure to tighten access controls and safeguard sensitive examination materials. Officials indicated the security force would focus on monitoring and restricting movement within confidential areas to prevent unauthorized access and potential breaches. The move underscores renewed institutional emphasis on examination integrity ahead of upcoming competitive entrance tests administered by the NTA.