NEET Paper Leak: CISF Security at NTA Office, Confidential Areas to Face Stricter Checks

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will now have CISF security at its newly allotted office in Delhi to strengthen protection of confidential examination operations. The agency has shifted sensitive work to a 55,000-square-foot space in the Government of India Press Building on Minto Road. The move follows security concerns highlighted after the NEET-UG paper leak controversy. According to officials, confidential areas have been separately demarcated, with movement and access strictly monitored. The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved CISF security cover, with 39 personnel deployed for access control, screening and security at entry and exit points.

The security measures come after findings pointed to gaps in monitoring and checking at the NTA’s earlier office. CISF personnel will use X-ray baggage screening machines and Door Frame Metal Detectors. The NTA is also strengthening cybersecurity across examination systems, including question paper handling, registration, admit cards, computer-based testing, OMR processing and results. Officials said strict access controls, encryption, tamper-evident storage and enhanced Security Operations Centre monitoring are being introduced. The agency is also appointing a dedicated Chief Information Security Officer and continuing independent cybersecurity audits, according to The Hindu.