NEET UG Exam 2026 Cancelled Amidst Paper Leak Investigation
Investigation into NEET Paper Leak Expands
NEET Paper Leak, NEET UG Exam 2026 Cancelled: The investigation into the alleged leak of the NEET examination paper is broadening significantly. Initial findings indicate that the exam paper was acquired for around ₹30 lakh and subsequently disseminated to students across multiple states. Investigative agencies have traced the leak back to a printing facility in Nashik, from where it was transferred to a gang in Gurugram, eventually reaching seven states, including Rajasthan. The CBI and other agencies are closely monitoring this entire operation, scrutinizing the involvement of students, coaching networks, medical professionals, and various other suspects.
Origin of the NEET Paper Leak
Where Was the NEET Paper Leaked From?
The investigation has identified that the NEET question paper originated from a printing press in Nashik, Maharashtra. This location is where the paper allegedly fell into the hands of a gang based in Gurugram. Authorities suspect that insiders within the network may have facilitated the leak prior to the examination. A young man named Shubham, who was arrested in Nashik and is currently studying MBBS in Madhya Pradesh, is under investigation to determine how the paper was smuggled out and who was responsible for its distribution.
Distribution Network Across States
Gurugram Gang Distributed the Paper Across Multiple States
Further investigations have revealed that the Gurugram gang sold the leaked paper across various states for significant amounts of money. This network reportedly extends to Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, and even parts of South India. There are indications that some doctors were also in contact with this gang. Digital evidence and chat records suggest that this network may have been involved in last year's NEET paper leak as well.
Key Players in the Paper Purchase
Two Brothers from Jaipur Purchased the Paper for ₹30 Lakh
In Rajasthan, a crucial link in this case is traced back to Jamwaramgarh in Jaipur. Investigations indicate that two brothers, Mangilal and Dinesh, allegedly acquired the exam paper from the Gurugram gang on April 26 for ₹30 lakh. One of the brothers is reported to have political connections. Authorities are currently examining their financial dealings and contacts, especially since four children from their family were selected in last year's NEET exam, raising numerous questions about the network's integrity.
Sikar as a Distribution Hub
Sikar Emerges as a Major Hub for Paper Distribution
After obtaining the paper, the brothers traveled to Sikar, where their son was preparing for the NEET exam. Investigations revealed that on April 29, the exam paper was distributed to various students and coaching networks in Sikar, a city known for its medical and engineering coaching. Authorities found that many students and coaching institute operators had created WhatsApp groups and Telegram channels to share the leaked exam paper.
Viral Spread of the Paper
Paper Goes Viral on WhatsApp and Telegram Channels
Sources indicate that Mangilal and Dinesh sold the exam paper across multiple groups. Rakesh Kumar, who was later arrested in Dehradun, also obtained the paper through this network. Approximately 100 students were linked to Rakesh Kumar's channel, and the paper spread rapidly across seven states. Investigative agencies have recovered both PDF files and printed copies of the exam paper as evidence.
Reach of the Paper
Copies of the Paper Reach as Far as Kerala
The investigation further uncovered that printed copies of the exam paper were sent as far as Kerala. One copy reached a student pursuing an MBBS degree there, who then forwarded it to his father, a PG accommodation operator in Sikar. This PG operator was the first to alert the police about the situation on May 3, although initial responses from local authorities were not taken seriously. The matter was later escalated to the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Advance Messages Indicating the Leak
Messages Started Arriving a Month in Advance
Investigators found messages on the phones of several arrested students in Sikar, indicating that "the paper will be available" about a month before the exam. A student from Jamwaramgarh had also claimed to peers that the exam paper would be accessible in advance, with his family reportedly in contact with a gang in Haryana.
Links to Previous Leaks
Potential Links to Last Year's Paper Leak
Mobile chat logs from suspects arrested in Haryana have raised new suspicions regarding last year's NEET examination. Agencies are investigating whether this network has been involved in manipulating medical entrance exams for an extended period. Digital communications, financial transactions, call logs, and social media interactions are under scrutiny. Police forces from various states, along with central agencies, are collaborating on this case.
Ongoing Investigation Focus
Who is on the Radar of the CBI and Investigative Agencies?
The investigation is now concentrating on individuals involved in the procurement, sale, and distribution of the exam paper. The focus includes the Gurugram gang, networks linked to Sikar, certain doctors, coaching institutes, and suspected students. Investigators are working to uncover how such a significant breach occurred within the examination system. Further significant developments in this case are anticipated in the coming days.