Tampering with OMR Sheet in NEET 2026: What Happens?
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has listed tampering with the OMR Answer Sheet as a serious Unfair Means Practice in the NEET (UG) 2026 examination. Any action that alters, damages, or manipulates the OMR sheet compromises the fairness of the examination and attracts strict penalties, including cancellation of result, debarment from future NTA exams, and possible criminal action under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
Candidates are therefore advised to follow all examination instructions carefully while handling the OMR Answer Sheet.
What Is Considered Tampering with the OMR Sheet in NEET 2026 UG?
As per the NEET (UG) 2026 Information Bulletin, the following acts related to the OMR sheet fall under unfair means practices:
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Tearing or defacing the filled OMR Answer Sheet
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Erasing or obliterating any information printed on the OMR sheet
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Providing incorrect information or overwriting details such as Roll Number, Test Booklet Number, Candidate’s Name, Father’s or Mother’s Name, or Candidate’s Signature.
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Making fake claims by manipulating responses on the OMR sheet
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Tampering with the OMR sheet before or after it is uploaded on the website for challenge
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Taking away the OMR Answer Sheet (original or office copy) outside the examination hall
Any of these actions are treated as attempts to gain an unfair advantage.
Is Tampering Classified as Unfair Means Practice in NEET 2026 Exam?
NTA defines unfair means practice as any activity that allows a candidate to gain an unfair advantage over others. Tampering with the OMR sheet directly falls under this definition and is treated as a serious examination offence, regardless of whether it occurs during or after the examination.
Punishment for Tampering with OMR Sheet in NEET 2026
According to the Information Bulletin:
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Candidates involved in tampering with the OMR sheet will be booked under an Unfair Means (UFM) case
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Such candidates may be debarred from NTA examinations for up to three years, depending on the gravity of the offence
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They shall also be liable for criminal action and/or other action under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024