A fresh political controversy erupted on Saturday after technical issues disrupted the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) 2026 at several examination centres across India.
The incident prompted criticism from opposition leaders, including Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the examination, later clarified that the delay was caused by a technical problem at the end of its technology partner, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The agency said the issue was resolved and that all affected candidates were given full compensatory time.
Kejriwal Targets Centre Over Exam Disruptions
Reacting to the delay, Arvind Kejriwal shared a social media post by senior AAP leader Atishi and wrote, “The country needs an educated PM.”
His remarks came amid growing criticism of the handling of major national-level examinations in recent months. Opposition parties have linked the CUET disruption to earlier controversies involving NEET-UG, CBSE evaluation concerns and issues surrounding SSC examinations.
Atishi questioned the management of the examination process and expressed concern over the inconvenience caused to students and their families.
Rahul Gandhi Raises Concerns Over Examination System
Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi also criticised the government, arguing that repeated controversies involving competitive examinations have affected the confidence of students.
In a social media post, Gandhi referred to NEET, CBSE, SSC and CUET, claiming that recurring issues point to deeper challenges within the examination system. He called for greater accountability and stronger safeguards to protect students’ interests.
NTA Explains CUET Delay
The NTA stated that a technical glitch reported by TCS delayed the start of the CUET-UG examination at some centres on May 30.
According to the agency, the issue was fixed promptly and candidates were allowed to complete their examinations without losing any allotted time. The afternoon session schedule was also revised to accommodate the delay.
“NTA sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused to students and parents,” the agency said in its official statement.
The agency also released a helpline number and support email to assist candidates facing difficulties.
Series of Examination Controversies
The CUET disruption follows the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 after allegations of a paper leak. The examination is scheduled to be conducted again following an investigation ordered by the government.
Separately, concerns were raised over the CBSE evaluation process and disruptions during the SSC GD Constable Examination. These developments have triggered political debate over examination management and student welfare.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has stated that the government is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in all national-level examinations. He has also assured students that corrective measures are being implemented.
What Is CUET-UG?
Introduced in 2022 under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, CUET-UG is a national-level entrance examination for admission to undergraduate programmes in central, state and participating private universities.
The examination is conducted over multiple days and shifts to accommodate a large number of applicants and different subject combinations.
As authorities work to address the latest disruption, students and parents are hoping for smoother examination processes and stronger safeguards in future entrance tests.
