As protests continue over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, actor and former Miss World Manushi Chhillar has spoken about facing a similar ordeal in 2015, when she had to appear for the medical entrance exam twice following a paper leak.

“I remember the uncertainty more than anything else. You prepare for years believing that the exam day is the finish line, and then suddenly you’re told that it isn’t. It’s not just about writing another paper. It’s about reliving months of anxiety, postponing plans, and staying mentally prepared all over again,” she tells us.

Manushi, who had enrolled in medical college before entering the Miss India pageant, says, “I appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main in April after my board exams and the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT), now known as the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), in May. I chose not to take JEE Advanced because I was clear that I wanted to study medicine.”

She adds that while she had the privilege of choosing between fields, many students do not: “For most, NEET is a chance to build a better life. You feel responsible not just for yourself, but for the hopes of everyone around you. By the end of it, most students are exhausted.”

She reappeared for the examination 45 days later and secured a good score, but says the burden of another attempt cannot be overlooked. “Another attempt comes with emotional, financial, and psychological costs that deserve to be acknowledged.”

Supporting students speaking out for a fair examination system, Manushi adds, “A paper leak isn’t just an administrative glitch, it affects millions of hours of hard work. For many families, preparing for competitive exams involves significant financial sacrifices, years of disciplined study, and immense emotional investment. The real damage goes beyond one examination. It erodes trust. Students should walk into an exam hall believing that effort and merit alone will determine the outcome.”

JNU and DU have issued advisories asking students and faculty to stay away from protests at Jantar Mantar, citing safety concerns, possible legal consequences and the impact on academics. The notices drew criticism from Rahul Gandhi and Pooja Bhatt.

Meanwhile, comedian-actor Anubhav Singh Bassi (above) postponed his July 25 show at Talkatora Stadium and actor-podcaster Soha Ali Khan cancelled this week’s episode in solidarity with the protesting students. Sonu Nigam (left) also postponed his July 25 concert at Delhi’s Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in solidarity with the students.