The Central government has ordered the temporary suspension of mobile internet services around Jantar Mantar in New Delhi amid continuing protests over the alleged NEET 2026 paper leak.
According to reports, the restriction came into effect at 4:00 pm on July 23 and will remain in force until 12:00 am. The suspension applies to all mobile internet technologies within a 1.5-kilometre radius of the protest site.
Why Mobile Internet Was Suspended
The order was issued under the provisions of the Telecommunication Act, 2023, along with the Telecommunications (Temporary Suspension of Services) Rules, 2024.
Authorities stated that the decision was taken to maintain public order and prevent any situation that could threaten public safety.
The directive was issued by the Union Home Secretary and sent to the Commissioner of Delhi Police.
The order states that suspending mobile internet services was considered necessary “in the interest of public order and for preventing incitement to the commission of any offence.”
As a result, all mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended within the notified area surrounding Jantar Mantar.
NEET Paper Leak Protests Continue
Jantar Mantar has remained the centre of demonstrations against the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2026 examination.
The protests are being led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) along with students and activists demanding accountability over the examination controversy.
Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk has also joined the movement. He has been on a hunger strike for more than 20 days, demanding action over the paper leak issue and seeking the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Meanwhile, the demonstrations have continued to draw attention from students, opposition leaders and civil society groups.
Government Cites Public Safety
The government maintained that the internet shutdown is a temporary measure aimed at ensuring law and order in the area.
The official order says the suspension has been imposed in the interest of public safety and to prevent any possible disturbance during the ongoing protests.
The restriction applies only to mobile internet services and is limited to the notified area around Jantar Mantar for the specified duration.
Timeline of the NEET 2026 Controversy
The NEET-UG 2026 examination has remained at the centre of nationwide debate for several months.
- May 3, 2026: NEET-UG 2026 examination conducted.
- May 12, 2026: Examination cancelled following allegations of a paper leak.
- June 21, 2026: Fresh examination held.
- July 16, 2026: Revised results declared.
However, protests demanding accountability and action against those responsible have continued even after the re-examination and declaration of results.