NTA experts among 13 charged in alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak conspiracy

August 7, 2026 /Posted byBandy EW / 0

The CBI has filed a chargesheet against 13 accused, including three NTA-appointed subject experts, alleging they were part of a multi-state syndicate that leaked confidential NEET-UG 2026 question papers in exchange for lakhs of rupees. The charges have been filed under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

According to the chargesheet, NTA subject experts Manisha Gurunath Mandhare (Botany), Prahlad Vithalrao Kulkarni (Chemistry) and Manisha Sanjay Havaldar (Physics) allegedly misused their official positions to access and leak question papers, which were circulated through coaching operators, brokers and intermediaries using Telegram and WhatsApp.

The CBI said forensic analysis of seized mobile phones and electronic devices traced the movement of leaked PDFs and images across the accused. Investigators alleged the papers moved through a chain involving Yash Yadav, Shubham Madhukar Khairnar, Dhananjay Lokhande and Manisha Sanjay Waghmare, with one transaction reportedly worth ₹25 lakh. Searches also recovered a signed blank cheque, academic certificates and a WhatsApp group titled “NEET 2026”, which investigators cited as key evidence.

The chargesheet further states that candidates were allegedly offered access to the question paper for ₹4 lakh along with coaching support. The CBI has submitted the chargesheet before the Special CBI Court at Rouse Avenue, which will decide whether to take cognisance of the case.

(Inputs from The New Indian Express)

Also read: ABVP seeks immediate release of UGC NET June 2026 results

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NTA experts among 13 charged in alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak conspiracy

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