CBI alleges NTA experts sold NEET-UG 2026 papers in multi-state scam

The Central Bureau of Investigation has concluded that the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak resulted from a coordinated, multi-state criminal conspiracy involving National Testing Agency subject experts. A chargesheet presented before the Special CBI Court in Delhi names 13 individuals, among them botany specialist Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, chemistry expert Prahlad Vithalrao Kulkarni and physics expert Manisha Sanjay Havaldar, who allegedly obtained the exam questions through their official roles.

The confidential papers were then handed to a chain of intermediaries, including coaches and brokers, who distributed them to aspirants for fees ranging up to several lakh rupees. Forensic analysis of seized phones and storage devices uncovered PDF files and chat logs on platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp that traced the leak’s movement across multiple states. Payments such as Rs 25 lakh to Dhananjay Lokhande and security deposits of certificates and a signed blank cheque were also documented. The accused are charged under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.