Vishal Dadlani refutes ‘Indian Idol’ exit rumours over NEET row

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 23, 2026

Vishal Dadlani denied reports that he was removed from the Indian Idol 16 judging panel after criticizing the NEET-UG exam leak controversy, sharing a video from the show's set to confirm his continued involvement. The NEET-UG exam was canceled nationwide following the leak, leading to protests and calls for accountability, while the investigation is now being handled by the CBI.

Musician and composer Vishal Dadlani has dismissed circulating claims that he was removed from the judging panel of Indian Idol 16 due to his comments on the recent NEET-UG paper leak controversy. The rumors emerged shortly after Dadlani posted a video sharply criticizing the handling of the alleged examination leak and urging voters to select more “educated leaders,” sparking widespread discussion online.

Several social media accounts soon circulated reports suggesting that the producers of Indian Idol 16 had dropped Dadlani following his public remarks. However, neither the television network nor the show's production team issued statements confirming these reports. Dadlani responded to the speculation by sharing a video from the sets of Indian Idol 16, where he was shown actively filming alongside his fellow judges and the production crew. In the video, he humorously dismissed the rumors and confirmed his ongoing role on the show.

In the caption accompanying the clip, Dadlani cautioned against trusting information sourced from social media, highlighting the prevalence of misinformation and manipulation online. “Keep fighting the good fight, and saying what needs to be said!” he added.

Dadlani is currently a judge on Indian Idol 16 alongside singers Shreya Ghoshal and Badshah.

The NEET-UG 2026 examination was embroiled in controversy after allegations surfaced that a “guess paper” circulated in advance closely resembled the actual exam paper administered on May 3. Following investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG), the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the examination nationwide and announced a re-test. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has since been tasked with probing the alleged leak.

The exam cancellation prompted protests by students, parents, and student organizations across Delhi and other parts of India. Demonstrators have called for accountability and action against those responsible, as well as reforms to safeguard the examination process. Political parties and public figures have also joined the calls, with some demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan in response to the controversy.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.