India Blocks Telegram Before Retest Exam to Curb Cheating

India has temporarily blocked access to the Telegram messaging app ahead of a crucial retest for the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET), a highly competitive exam for aspiring doctors. The measure, effective until June 22, aims to curb cheating following a recent scandal involving a leaked question paper.

The NEET exam, which attracts over two million candidates, was previously scrapped in May due to allegations of a widespread leak, reportedly circulated through Telegram channels. This incident, coupled with a separate marking fiasco in high school tests, fueled public outrage and demands for the education minister's resignation.

The Ministry of Electronics, in coordination with India's National Testing Agency (NTA), issued the order restricting Telegram access. The NTA stated that the block is necessary due to the "organized use of the platform by cheating rackets to defraud candidates." Message-editing features on the platform will remain restricted until June 30.

This action highlights the intense pressure surrounding these exams, which fuels a lucrative industry of coaching centers and criminal networks seeking to profit from leaked papers. The intense competition for limited professional career opportunities in India intensifies the pressure on students, who often dedicate years to preparation. The government has launched a website for the public to report suspicious activities related to the NEET exam.

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Both measures have been taken in the interest of public order, in response to the organised use of the platform by cheating rackets to defraud candidates.