Jamshedpur: Like many, city-based Shambhavi Tewari, the CISCE class 12 national topper of 2026, who appeared for the NEET-UG re-test on Sunday, also described the question paper as tougher and lengthier, particularly the physics section, compared to the earlier exam. Many also expressed apprehension over their performance and renewed concerns about the security of examination papers.Speaking to TOI after emerging from her examination centre at Jamshedpur Co-operative College, Tewari said the paper was noticeably more demanding than the one conducted earlier.“The questions were lengthy and the physics section was particularly tough,” she said.Shambhavi also voiced concern over the issue of question paper leaks, saying such incidents are deeply demoralising for sincere aspirants who spend years preparing for one of the country’s most competitive entrance examinations.A similar sentiment also echoed by Rohit, another candidate who appeared for the re-test. “Students are unsure about the water-tight security of question papers. The controversy surrounding leaks has shaken the confidence of aspirants,” he said.Several candidates feared that their scores could be adversely affected because of the increased difficulty level.Sona Parveen, appearing for NEET-UG for the third time after completing Plus Two, said even the biology section was not easy. “The biology questions were difficult and required careful reading. The government should ensure that question papers do not leak and that students get a fair chance,” she said.Outside examination centres, anxious parents waited for hours to hear from their wards.
NEET-UG aspirants come out of exam hall in Jamshedpur on Sunday
CISCE Class 12 national topper of 2026 Shambhavi Tewari outside an exam centrre in Jamshedpur
