The Indian government has temporarily restricted access to Telegram across the country until June 22 as part of efforts to prevent cheating and misinformation ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. The move comes after authorities identified several Telegram groups allegedly spreading fake claims about question paper leaks and offering exam-related material for money. Officials said the restrictions were introduced to maintain the integrity of the medical entrance examination, which is scheduled to be held on June 21.

The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts NEET, reportedly supported the temporary action after concerns were raised over the misuse of encrypted messaging platforms during the examination process. According to officials, multiple channels on Telegram were under investigation for allegedly circulating misleading information aimed at students and parents. Some groups reportedly claimed to possess the NEET re-exam paper and demanded payments in exchange for access.

Authorities also expressed concern over Telegram’s message-editing feature, which investigators believe was being used to manipulate timestamps and create false narratives around paper leaks after examinations had already taken place. Sources familiar with the matter said the government has additionally asked the platform to temporarily disable message-editing capabilities in India until the end of June.

The temporary restriction has triggered mixed reactions among users. While many students welcomed stricter measures against exam fraud, others pointed out that Telegram is widely used for educational discussions, coaching updates, and academic communities. The latest development comes amid growing scrutiny of India’s examination system following repeated allegations of leaks and irregularities in competitive exams over the past few years. The NEET controversy earlier this year had sparked nationwide protests and demands for stronger safeguards to ensure fairness in the admission process. Officials have advised students to avoid relying on unverified social media claims and to follow only official communication from the NTA regarding examination updates. The government has not yet announced whether the restrictions will continue beyond June 22.