NTA Faces Backlash Over JEE Main 2026 Chemistry Exam Discrepancies
The JEE Main exam is one of the largest engineering entrance tests in India. Recently, the National Testing Agency (NTA) released the provisional answer key for the JEE Main 2026 Session 2 on April 11, 2026, following the exam conducted from April 2 to April 8, 2026. This year, approximately 11.23 lakh candidates participated in the computer-based test (CBT), which took place across 566 examination centres in 304 cities in India and 14 cities abroad.
However, the release of the answer key has not been without controversy. Students have expressed their frustration over discrepancies noted in the Chemistry section of the exam. One student voiced their anger, stating, “WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?? RELEASE THE CORRECT ANS KEY ASAP AND ISSUE AND APOLOGY REGARDING THE MENTAL TORTURE YOU HAVE GIVEN TO THIS SHIFT CHILDREN.” Another student emphasized the need for accountability, saying, “This discrepancy cannot be dismissed with just an apology from NTA. Accountability must be ensured.”
In response to the uproar, the NTA has advised candidates to refrain from challenging the provisional answer key until an official clarification is issued regarding the discrepancies. NTA’s statement included, “NTA regrets the inconvenience caused. Candidates are advised not to make any payments related to challenges for these until an official clarification is issued.” Candidates can challenge the provisional answer key for a fee of ₹200 per question, but the fee is non-refundable, even if the challenge is accepted.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact nature of the discrepancies in the Chemistry exam, leaving many candidates anxious about their results. The final answer key is expected to be released on April 20, 2026, and students are encouraged to analyze their responses and raise objections if necessary.
Additionally, the NTA has begun sharing exam-related information through social media platforms, aiming to provide real-time updates, exam alerts, and essential information in one place. This initiative is seen as a step towards improving communication with candidates, especially during such contentious times.
