Guwahati: The abrupt cancellation of NEET 2026 amid allegations of a paper leak has triggered widespread stress, uncertainty, and disappointment among students in Guwahati. The decision has deepened confusion, as many candidates had already left for holidays or vacated their hostels after appearing for the exam.Coaching institutes across the city are being inundated with calls from anxious parents seeking clarity on the next steps. Several thousand students appeared for the examination at 17 centres in Guwahati on May 3.Harshita Talukdar, one of the candidates, said, “The delay may affect admissions and academic schedules, leaving students like us anxious about our future.” She added that the National Testing Agency’s prompt action also reflects an effort to maintain fairness and transparency. “For some students, this development offers extra time to strengthen preparation and hope for a more unbiased, merit-based outcome,” she said.Faculty members believe a long-term solution lies in restructuring the examination system. “NEET and CUET-UG screening tests can be conducted along with the Class 12 board examination to reduce pressure, duplication, and logistical challenges. Students qualifying in the screening stage can then appear for a final advanced-level exam, similar to the JEE Main and JEE Advanced model,” said Jonali Das, principal of Modern English School, Kahilipara. She added that such a two-tier system would improve efficiency, lower malpractice risks, and ensure admissions are based on both academic consistency and competitive merit, restoring credibility to the process.Anisha Roy, another examinee, said, “It’s unfortunate to learn about the NEET 2026 paper leak. This is a serious issue that causes distress among aspirants and organisers alike.” She stressed that such incidents damage trust in the education system and urged strict action against those responsible to prevent future occurrences.Students who spent years preparing through hard work and sacrifice now feel emotionally drained and unfairly treated. A school teacher previously associated with NTA-conducted NEET said parents are equally distressed after investing money, effort, and hope in their children’s future. “Repeated controversies have weakened confidence in the fairness and transparency of national entrance examinations,” the teacher said on condition of anonymity.
