Activist Sonam Wangchuk has officially ended his 26-day hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Government that no legal action will be taken against protesters at Jantar Mantar. The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), which has been leading the anti-paper leak movement, welcomed the development but said the protest will continue until the Union Education Minister resigns. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced stricter action against paper leaks, confirming that the Union Cabinet will discuss a draft bill introducing fast-track courts and tougher punishments for offenders. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the government's response, calling for accountability over the NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy.

Sonam Wangchuk ends 26-Day hunger strike | PM Modi promises tough anti-paper leak law 

Nationwide security has been significantly intensified for the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for Sunday from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Security has been significantly heightened outside several centres in the national capital, including CM SHRI School at Pandara Road. Alongside these stringent security measures, the state government has set up special cooling zones outside a centre to provide relief from the intense summer heat in the national capital. Special waiting arrangements have been made for the convenience of students appearing for the examination, as well as their parents and family members. In Raichur, examination staff asked students to remove chains and other restricted accessories. Tight security arrangements are made by the police at examination centres. Authorities are conducting thorough verification and security checks to ensure a fair and smooth examination process. In Mangalore, preparations are in full swing for the exam at Government Pre-University (PU) College for Women in Balmatta, which is one of the centres. The papers were transported under the supervision of security personnel. A student told ANI, "I have prepared well. The previous time I got more than 550 plus." In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Security-I, Priti Tiwari, highlighted the security measures for smooth examination. "The police have taken out all the materials under very tight security, with complete security and traffic arrangements in place, and under the supervision of the CP, they are being safely transported to their respective centres. The area has been divided into four zones, and the DCPs are monitoring and issuing instructions in all the zones," she said. The NEET-UG reexam will be held today, and extensive security and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and fair conduct of the examination. More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the examination at 5,440 centres across 551 cities in India and 14 centres abroad. The exam was rescheduled due to an alleged "paper leak", and CBI, which is probing the case, has made several arrests. CBSE students had also faced problems related to the re-evaluation process. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday expressed his faith in the National Testing Agency, state governments and people in the education sector and conveyed his best wishes to students sitting for the NEET-UG exam, stating that they should appear in the test without worry and fear.Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the examination at 5,440 centres across 551 cities in India and 14 centres abroad.

Nationwide security has been significantly intensified for the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for Sunday from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Security has been significantly heightened outside several centres in the national capital, including CM SHRI School at Pandara Road. Alongside these stringent security measures, the state government has set up special cooling zones outside a centre to provide relief from the intense summer heat in the national capital. Special waiting arrangements have been made for the convenience of students appearing for the examination, as well as their parents and family members. In Raichur, examination staff asked students to remove chains and other restricted accessories. Tight security arrangements are made by the police at examination centres. Authorities are conducting thorough verification and security checks to ensure a fair and smooth examination process. In Mangalore, preparations are in full swing for the exam at Government Pre-University (PU) College for Women in Balmatta, which is one of the centres. The papers were transported under the supervision of security personnel. A student told ANI, "I have prepared well. The previous time I got more than 550 plus." In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) for Security-I, Priti Tiwari, highlighted the security measures for smooth examination. "The police have taken out all the materials under very tight security, with complete security and traffic arrangements in place, and under the supervision of the CP, they are being safely transported to their respective centres. The area has been divided into four zones, and the DCPs are monitoring and issuing instructions in all the zones," she said. The NEET-UG reexam will be held today, and extensive security and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the smooth and fair conduct of the examination. More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the examination at 5,440 centres across 551 cities in India and 14 centres abroad. The exam was rescheduled due to an alleged "paper leak", and CBI, which is probing the case, has made several arrests. CBSE students had also faced problems related to the re-evaluation process. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Sunday expressed his faith in the National Testing Agency, state governments and people in the education sector and conveyed his best wishes to students sitting for the NEET-UG exam, stating that they should appear in the test without worry and fear. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits for grammar and punctuation. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

More than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the examination at 5,440 centres across 551 cities in India and 14 centres abroad.

NEET-UG re-exam: Tight security outside centres across nation

Security has been significantly strengthened across all 128 examination centres in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21. Authorities conducted mock drills at various centres across the Union Territory on Saturday to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the examination.&nbsp;Nearly 50,000 medical aspirants from Jammu and Kashmir are set to appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination on Sunday, nearly seven weeks after the original examination was cancelled amid allegations of a question paper leak that sparked nationwide controversy, legal scrutiny, and political debate.&nbsp;<h2>&nbsp;Unprecedented security in place</h2>&nbsp;The pen-and-paper examination will be held from 2:00 pm to 5:15 pm at designated centres across the country. In a bid to restore confidence in the examination process and eliminate any possibility of malpractice, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced an unprecedented set of security measures. For the first time, the Indian Air Force has been tasked with transporting sealed question papers. Additional safeguards include end-to-end secure handling of confidential materials, GPS-enabled transportation with police escorts, CCTV surveillance linked to centralised control rooms, Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, and mandatory frisking using high-sensitivity metal detectors.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-ug-2026-after-blaming-technical-glitch-nta-now-claims-student-chose-abu-dhabi-via-own-login-1781953782405">NEET-UG 2026: After blaming technical glitch, NTA now claims student chose Abu Dhabi via own login</a>&nbsp;In Jammu and Kashmir, extensive administrative and security arrangements have been put in place. The School Education Department ordered the suspension of classwork on Saturday in all 60 higher secondary schools designated as NEET examination centres across Kashmir. Private coaching institutes throughout the Valley have also been directed to remain closed on Sunday to facilitate the smooth conduct of the examination.&nbsp;Meanwhile, elaborate security measures were also visible in Handwara, where Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel were deployed at examination centres. A dog squad was pressed into service as part of enhanced security protocols.&nbsp;&nbsp;Authorities conducted stringent security checks and crowd-management exercises to maintain transparency and ensure a hassle-free environment for candidates. &nbsp;

Nearly 50,000 medical aspirants from Jammu and Kashmir are set to appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination on Sunday, nearly seven weeks after the original examination was cancelled.

Security has been significantly strengthened across all 128 examination centres in Jammu and Kashmir ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21. Authorities conducted mock drills at various centres across the Union Territory on Saturday to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the examination. Nearly 50,000 medical aspirants from Jammu and Kashmir are set to appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination on Sunday, nearly seven weeks after the original examination was cancelled amid allegations of a question paper leak that sparked nationwide controversy, legal scrutiny, and political debate. Unprecedented security in place The pen-and-paper examination will be held from 2:00 pm to 5:15 pm at designated centres across the country. In a bid to restore confidence in the examination process and eliminate any possibility of malpractice, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced an unprecedented set of security measures. For the first time, the Indian Air Force has been tasked with transporting sealed question papers. Additional safeguards include end-to-end secure handling of confidential materials, GPS-enabled transportation with police escorts, CCTV surveillance linked to centralised control rooms, Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, and mandatory frisking using high-sensitivity metal detectors. ALSO READ: NEET-UG 2026: After blaming technical glitch, NTA now claims student chose Abu Dhabi via own login In Jammu and Kashmir, extensive administrative and security arrangements have been put in place. The School Education Department ordered the suspension of classwork on Saturday in all 60 higher secondary schools designated as NEET examination centres across Kashmir. Private coaching institutes throughout the Valley have also been directed to remain closed on Sunday to facilitate the smooth conduct of the examination. Meanwhile, elaborate security measures were also visible in Handwara, where Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel were deployed at examination centres. A dog squad was pressed into service as part of enhanced security protocols. Authorities conducted stringent security checks and crowd-management exercises to maintain transparency and ensure a hassle-free environment for candidates.

Nearly 50,000 medical aspirants from Jammu and Kashmir are set to appear for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination on Sunday, nearly seven weeks after the original examination was cancelled.

Security tightened across J&K ahead of NEET-UG re-examination

National Testing Agency (NTA) has clarified that a NEET-UG 2026 candidate from Nagpur, who had alleged that he was wrongly allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi due to a technical glitch, had himself selected the overseas city using his registered login credentials. The clarification was issued a day before the NEET-UG examination scheduled to be held on June 21, amid concerns raised over the candidate's centre allotment.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-re-exam-fresh-scam-surfaces-despite-telegram-ban-rajasthan-youth-arrested-for-selling-fake-papers-1781937484501">Rajasthan man arrested for selling fake NEET papers on Telegram despite app ban</a>&nbsp;According to the NTA, an examination of its digital records showed that the request to change the examination city was made through the candidate's own account during the correction window provided to applicants.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">NTA tweets - Reference the issue with regard to allotment of a centre in Abu Dhabi to a candidate in Nagpur, NTA would like to state the following: ...On the &#39;Abu Dhabi&#39; query: NTA&#39;s web-activity records indicate that the city change in this case was made through the candidate&#39;s… <a href="https://t.co/dvlYNBdYPN">https://t.co/dvlYNBdYPN</a> <a href="https://t.co/lcvpxsM4fy">pic.twitter.com/lcvpxsM4fy</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2068274511208976397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-ai-problem-gaps-in-compute-hardware-infrastructure-chips-1781943963441">India's AI problem: Gaps in compute, hardware, infrastructure, chips affect readiness</a>&nbsp;"NTA's web-activity records indicate that the city change in this case was made through the candidate's own registered login during the open correction window, with a consistent single-user access pattern," the agency said in a statement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-2026-re-exam-nta-conducts-nationwide-mock-drills-what-new-safeguards-have-been-introduced-and-will-they-restore-students-trust-wion-decodes-1781930591535">NEET 2026 re-exam: 23 lakh students, one question: Can NTA prevent another leak?</a>&nbsp;The agency further maintained that its records did not indicate any technical malfunction or unauthorised access in the case. Instead, it said the change was made using the candidate's authenticated credentials during the period when candidates were allowed to modify their examination city preferences.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cockroach-janta-party-heads-to-delhi-s-jantar-mantar-again-for-protest-dipke-asks-supporters-to-bring-thali-and-chamach-here-s-why-neet-leak-1781927757065">CJP protest today; Dipke asks supporters to bring 'thali &amp; chamach'. Here's why</a>&nbsp;The controversy emerged after reports claimed that the Nagpur-based candidate had been allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi despite not opting for the overseas location, prompting questions over the examination body's allotment process.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-defection-buzz-uddhav-thackeray-offers-to-step-down-as-shiv-sena-ubt-chief-vows-to-fight-on-1781903206714">Uddhav offers to quit as Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, vows to fight on amid rebellion</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

The NTA clarified that a Nagpur NEET-UG 2026 candidate, who blamed a technical glitch for his Abu Dhabi exam centre allotment, had actually selected the overseas city themselves during the correction window.

National Testing Agency (NTA) has clarified that a NEET-UG 2026 candidate from Nagpur, who had alleged that he was wrongly allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi due to a technical glitch, had himself selected the overseas city using his registered login credentials. The clarification was issued a day before the NEET-UG examination scheduled to be held on June 21, amid concerns raised over the candidate's centre allotment. Also read: Rajasthan man arrested for selling fake NEET papers on Telegram despite app ban According to the NTA, an examination of its digital records showed that the request to change the examination city was made through the candidate's own account during the correction window provided to applicants.

The NTA clarified that a Nagpur NEET-UG 2026 candidate, who blamed a technical glitch for his Abu Dhabi exam centre allotment, had actually selected the overseas city themselves during the correction window.

NEET-UG 2026: After blaming technical glitch, NTA now claims student chose Abu Dhabi via own login

Abhijeet Dipke, the man behind the viral satirical movement, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has renewed his push for the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In a post on social media, Dipke announced that the CJP website was back online, and said that the petition "to sack" Union Minister Pradhan was live again.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/-we-can-get-you-killed-even-in-america-cockroach-janata-party-founder-shares-alarming-death-threat-messages-1779437275390">'We can get you murdered even in America': Cockroach Janta Party founder receives alarming death threats</a><h2>"Cockroaches survive everything"</h2>Days after the Cockroach Janata Party's website and social media were taken down, Dipke announced, "Cockroaches survive everything; the CJP movement will be no different." He added that the movement aims to collect one million signatures demanding the removal of Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing him of mishandling the education and examination system. "Sign up, because India’s students deserve better than an Education Minister who treats exams like a practical joke," he wrote.Already, over 580,000 people have signed the petition for the removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.<img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260526/image-1779774655351.png"><h2>Why does the CJP want Dharmendra Pradhan sacked?</h2>The satirical protest movement, which has gained traction online in recent days, wants Pradhan sacked over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy."The education system is compromised. From the tragic loss of students who died by suicide to the millions of futures broken by a decade of paper leaks, this failure cannot go ignored. There must be consequences," reads the petition page on the CJP website.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/cockroach-janata-party-founder-reacts-to-pakistan-followers-claim-says-i-know-you-are-desperately-trying-to-1779436144996">Cockroach Janta Party founder reacts to 'Pakistan followers' claim, says ‘I know you are desperately trying to...’</a>This year's NEET UG exam was cancelled on May 12 following allegations of a coordinated paper leak. The exam, conducted on May 3 across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, saw participation from over 22 lakh candidates. A reexamination is scheduled for June 21. According to reports, at least 14 NEET-linked students have committed suicide so far over the paper leak controversy.

The Cockroach Janata Party is back online and once again demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over the NEET-UG paper leak row. Abhijeet Dipke says the movement has already gathered lakhs of signatures despite takedowns, threats and hacking. Scroll down to read more.

Abhijeet Dipke, the man behind the viral satirical movement, the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), has renewed his push for the resignation of Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. In a post on social media, Dipke announced that the CJP website was back online, and said that the petition "to sack" Union Minister Pradhan was live again. Also read | 'We can get you murdered even in America': Cockroach Janta Party founder receives alarming death threats "Cockroaches survive everything" Days after the Cockroach Janata Party's website and social media were taken down, Dipke announced, "Cockroaches survive everything; the CJP movement will be no different." He added that the movement aims to collect one million signatures demanding the removal of Dharmendra Pradhan, accusing him of mishandling the education and examination system. "Sign up, because India’s students deserve better than an Education Minister who treats exams like a practical joke," he wrote. Already, over 580,000 people have signed the petition for the removal of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Why does the CJP want Dharmendra Pradhan sacked? The satirical protest movement, which has gained traction online in recent days, wants Pradhan sacked over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy. "The education system is compromised. From the tragic loss of students who died by suicide to the millions of futures broken by a decade of paper leaks, this failure cannot go ignored. There must be consequences," reads the petition page on the CJP website. Also read | Cockroach Janta Party founder reacts to 'Pakistan followers' claim, says ‘I know you are desperately trying to...’ This year's NEET UG exam was cancelled on May 12 following allegations of a coordinated paper leak. The exam, conducted on May 3 across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad, saw participation from over 22 lakh candidates. A reexamination is scheduled for June 21. According to reports, at least 14 NEET-linked students have committed suicide so far over the paper leak controversy.

The Cockroach Janata Party is back online and once again demanding Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation over the NEET-UG paper leak row. Abhijeet Dipke says the movement has already gathered lakhs of signatures despite takedowns, threats and hacking. Scroll down to read more.

'India’s students deserve better': Cockroach Janata Party revives petition targeting Edu Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

The Supreme Court of India on Monday (May 25) expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 due to paper leak, saying that it was “sad” that no lessons have been learned from previous such instances. This came as the top court heard a plea seeking the replacement of the National Testing Agency with an autonomous body for conducting the medical entrance exam in the country. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) had moved the court challenging the alleged “systemic failure” by the NTA in conducting the exam. The court has sought a reply from the Centre, the Education Ministry, and the NTA over the matter.A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe ordered that a copy of all petitions should be served to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. The court has also asked the NTA to file an affidavit by Thursday (May 28) on compliance with the directions issued by the court in 2024 on measures to strengthen the NEET mechanism.“We are so sad, they (NTA) haven’t learnt their lessons. We passed an order directing the constitution of a committee to give recommendations, which was accepted,” Justice Narasimha said.The court ordered, “We direct the NTA to file an affidavit indicating the position as regard to the monitoring committee constituted on 14 November, 2024. We also direct Dr K Radhakrishnan, the former chairman, to file an affidavit indicating the steps taken to ensure the compliance given by the High Powered Committtee that has given its report. The affidavit shall be filed within 3 days.”In the petition, FAIMA asked the court to direct the Centre to replace the NTA with a “more robust, technologically advanced, and autonomous body” for conducting NEET entrance exams. The plea was filed days after the NTA cancelled NEET-UG 2026, which was conducted on May 3, following an alleged paper leak. According to reports, “guess papers” circulating on WhatsApp and Telegram matched more than 100 questions in the actual question paper. The investigation has been handed over to the CBI.The plea further requested the formation of a high-powered monitoring committee headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, with a cybersecurity expert and a forensic scientist as members, to oversee the re-conduct of NEET-UG 2026 until a new independent examination authority is established.It also sought directions for re-conducting NEET-UG 2026 under the supervision of a judicially appointed high-powered committee, with the examination process to proceed only after the proposed interim oversight panel verifies and certifies the security of the revised system.Additionally, the petition called for the digital locking of question papers and a shift to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format to remove risks associated with the physical handling and transportation of exam papers.Meanwhile, the court directed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to submit a counter-affidavit and instructed the chairman of the monitoring committee to ensure compliance with its directions. The matter has now been scheduled for a hearing on Friday (May 29).

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, saying the NTA “hasn’t learnt lessons.” It sought replies from the Centre and NTA, while petitions demanded a fresh exam, tighter security, and replacing the agency.

The Supreme Court of India on Monday (May 25) expressed disappointment over the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 due to paper leak, saying that it was “sad” that no lessons have been learned from previous such instances. This came as the top court heard a plea seeking the replacement of the National Testing Agency with an autonomous body for conducting the medical entrance exam in the country. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) had moved the court challenging the alleged “systemic failure” by the NTA in conducting the exam. The court has sought a reply from the Centre, the Education Ministry, and the NTA over the matter. A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe ordered that a copy of all petitions should be served to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. The court has also asked the NTA to file an affidavit by Thursday (May 28) on compliance with the directions issued by the court in 2024 on measures to strengthen the NEET mechanism. “We are so sad, they (NTA) haven’t learnt their lessons. We passed an order directing the constitution of a committee to give recommendations, which was accepted,” Justice Narasimha said. The court ordered, “We direct the NTA to file an affidavit indicating the position as regard to the monitoring committee constituted on 14 November, 2024. We also direct Dr K Radhakrishnan, the former chairman, to file an affidavit indicating the steps taken to ensure the compliance given by the High Powered Committtee that has given its report. The affidavit shall be filed within 3 days.” In the petition, FAIMA asked the court to direct the Centre to replace the NTA with a “more robust, technologically advanced, and autonomous body” for conducting NEET entrance exams. The plea was filed days after the NTA cancelled NEET-UG 2026, which was conducted on May 3, following an alleged paper leak. According to reports, “guess papers” circulating on WhatsApp and Telegram matched more than 100 questions in the actual question paper. The investigation has been handed over to the CBI. The plea further requested the formation of a high-powered monitoring committee headed by a retired Supreme Court judge, with a cybersecurity expert and a forensic scientist as members, to oversee the re-conduct of NEET-UG 2026 until a new independent examination authority is established. It also sought directions for re-conducting NEET-UG 2026 under the supervision of a judicially appointed high-powered committee, with the examination process to proceed only after the proposed interim oversight panel verifies and certifies the security of the revised system. Additionally, the petition called for the digital locking of question papers and a shift to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format to remove risks associated with the physical handling and transportation of exam papers. Meanwhile, the court directed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to submit a counter-affidavit and instructed the chairman of the monitoring committee to ensure compliance with its directions. The matter has now been scheduled for a hearing on Friday (May 29).

The Supreme Court expressed concern over the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, saying the NTA “hasn’t learnt lessons.” It sought replies from the Centre and NTA, while petitions demanded a fresh exam, tighter security, and replacing the agency.

‘They haven’t learnt lessons’: SC seeks response from Centre, NTA over 2026 NEET paper leak

The Ministry of Education has announced a series of administrative and structural reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA) aimed at strengthening the functioning, transparency and credibility of the examination body following the controversy surrounding the alleged leak of NEET-UG 2026 question papers.&nbsp;According to an official statement issued by the NTA, four senior officers from the Government of India have been posted to the agency in recent days. The appointments include two officers at the Joint Secretary rank, who will serve as Additional Director Generals, along with two officers at the Director level.&nbsp;The Ministry said the move is intended to reinforce the agency’s leadership structure by bringing in experienced administrators from central services and inter-ministerial backgrounds.<h2>NTA to recruit CTO, CFO and HR head</h2>The NTA also announced plans to appoint three specialist officers for key leadership roles, including Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and General Manager (Human Resources).&nbsp;According to the agency, the CTO will oversee the digital examination ecosystem, including candidate-facing systems, biometric authentication, impersonation detection mechanisms powered by artificial intelligence, cybersecurity infrastructure and the modernisation of the NTA’s technology framework in coordination with agencies such as NIC, C-DAC, CERT-In and MeiTY.&nbsp;The CFO will supervise financial governance, treasury management, statutory compliance and examination-wise accounting, while the General Manager (HR) will be responsible for workforce management, HR reforms, employee engagement and institutional policy professionalisation.&nbsp;Applications for the three positions have been invited within 15 days from the publication of the advertisement on the NTA website. The selection process will be based on qualifications, experience and leadership capabilities.&nbsp;The reforms come in the wake of allegations that certain questions from NEET-UG 2026 were leaked and circulated among students.<h2>Dharmendra Pradhan reviews Re-NEET preparations</h2> Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level review meeting on Tuesday to assess preparations for the upcoming NEET (UG) re-examination.&nbsp;During the meeting, Pradhan stressed the need for complete transparency and integrity in the conduct of the examination and directed officials to eliminate all shortcomings identified in the earlier process.&nbsp;Pradhan directed officials to ensure proper facilities for students, including transportation, drinking water and other essential arrangements at examination centres.The re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21. Earlier, the Union Education Minister had announced that NEET-UG would shift to computer-based test (CBT) mode from next year as part of corrective measures.&nbsp;NEET-UG 2026, conducted on May 3, was cancelled by the NTA on May 12 after allegations of a coordinated paper leak surfaced.

The NTA also plans to hire three specialist officers for senior leadership positions, including Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and General Manager (Human Resources).

The Ministry of Education has announced a series of administrative and structural reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA) aimed at strengthening the functioning, transparency and credibility of the examination body following the controversy surrounding the alleged leak of NEET-UG 2026 question papers. According to an official statement issued by the NTA, four senior officers from the Government of India have been posted to the agency in recent days. The appointments include two officers at the Joint Secretary rank, who will serve as Additional Director Generals, along with two officers at the Director level. The Ministry said the move is intended to reinforce the agency’s leadership structure by bringing in experienced administrators from central services and inter-ministerial backgrounds. NTA to recruit CTO, CFO and HR head The NTA also announced plans to appoint three specialist officers for key leadership roles, including Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and General Manager (Human Resources). According to the agency, the CTO will oversee the digital examination ecosystem, including candidate-facing systems, biometric authentication, impersonation detection mechanisms powered by artificial intelligence, cybersecurity infrastructure and the modernisation of the NTA’s technology framework in coordination with agencies such as NIC, C-DAC, CERT-In and MeiTY. The CFO will supervise financial governance, treasury management, statutory compliance and examination-wise accounting, while the General Manager (HR) will be responsible for workforce management, HR reforms, employee engagement and institutional policy professionalisation. Applications for the three positions have been invited within 15 days from the publication of the advertisement on the NTA website. The selection process will be based on qualifications, experience and leadership capabilities. The reforms come in the wake of allegations that certain questions from NEET-UG 2026 were leaked and circulated among students. Dharmendra Pradhan reviews Re-NEET preparations Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level review meeting on Tuesday to assess preparations for the upcoming NEET (UG) re-examination. During the meeting, Pradhan stressed the need for complete transparency and integrity in the conduct of the examination and directed officials to eliminate all shortcomings identified in the earlier process. Pradhan directed officials to ensure proper facilities for students, including transportation, drinking water and other essential arrangements at examination centres. The re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21. Earlier, the Union Education Minister had announced that NEET-UG would shift to computer-based test (CBT) mode from next year as part of corrective measures. NEET-UG 2026, conducted on May 3, was cancelled by the NTA on May 12 after allegations of a coordinated paper leak surfaced.

The NTA also plans to hire three specialist officers for senior leadership positions, including Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Finance Officer (CFO) and General Manager (Human Resources).

Centre appoints four senior officers to NTA amid leadership revamp after NEET-UG paper leak row

A Botany teacher from Pune, who was an NTA subject expert, has been arrested for leaking the NEET-UG Biology question paper, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said on Saturday, taking the total number of arrests to nine. The Botany teacher, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, was arrested in Delhi after the CBI questioned her. Mandhare worked for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) process following her appointment by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as an expert, the CBI said.&nbsp;In April, Mandhare got in touch with NEET candidates through Manisha Wagmare, another accused from Pune who was arrested earlier, and gave coaching classes to select students at her house.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-if-pakistan-continues-to-harbour-terrorists-they-will-army-chief-upendra-dwivedi-issues-stern-warning-1778937070757">‘If Pakistan continues to harbour terrorists, they will...’: Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi issues stern warning</a>&nbsp;She allegedly disclosed important questions from Botany and Zoology and made the students note down the same in their notebooks and also mark in their textbooks, the CBI said. Most of the questions tallied with the actual paper of NEET-UG held on May 3, the probe agency said.&nbsp;In the last 24 hours, the CBI conducted searches at six locations across the country and seized incriminating documents, laptops, bank statements and mobile phones and a detailed analysis of the seized items is going on.The nine accused arrested so far in the paper leak case are from Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nasik, Pune and Ahliyanagar.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-who-replaced-mohd-sinwar-and-helped-plan-oct-7-attacks-killed-says-israel-1778933840744">Hamas chief who replaced Mohd Sinwar and helped plan Oct. 7 attacks killed, says Israel</a>&nbsp;The CBI said its investigation has found the actual source of the leakage of Chemistry and Biology papers as well as the middlemen involved in getting in touch with students who paid lakhs of rupees to attend the special coaching classes, where the questions in the NEET UG question paper were dictated and discussed.The CBI on Friday arrested PV Kulkarni, a Chemistry lecturer associated with the examination process on behalf of the NTA.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Saturday granted 10 days’ custody of accused Manisha Waghmare and PV Kulkarni to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for further interrogation in the case.&nbsp;The CBI told the court that both accused were part of a larger conspiracy involving the alleged obtaining and distribution of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper.&nbsp;&nbsp;The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21.

The Botany teacher, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, allegedly disclosed important questions from Botany and Zoology and made the students note down the same in their notebooks and also mark in their textbooks. Most of the questions tallied with the actual NNET-UG paper held on May 3.

A Botany teacher from Pune, who was an NTA subject expert, has been arrested for leaking the NEET-UG Biology question paper, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) said on Saturday, taking the total number of arrests to nine. The Botany teacher, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, was arrested in Delhi after the CBI questioned her. Mandhare worked for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) process following her appointment by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as an expert, the CBI said. In April, Mandhare got in touch with NEET candidates through Manisha Wagmare, another accused from Pune who was arrested earlier, and gave coaching classes to select students at her house. Also Read: ‘If Pakistan continues to harbour terrorists, they will...’: Army Chief Upendra Dwivedi issues stern warning She allegedly disclosed important questions from Botany and Zoology and made the students note down the same in their notebooks and also mark in their textbooks, the CBI said. Most of the questions tallied with the actual paper of NEET-UG held on May 3, the probe agency said. In the last 24 hours, the CBI conducted searches at six locations across the country and seized incriminating documents, laptops, bank statements and mobile phones and a detailed analysis of the seized items is going on. The nine accused arrested so far in the paper leak case are from Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nasik, Pune and Ahliyanagar. Also Read: Hamas chief who replaced Mohd Sinwar and helped plan Oct. 7 attacks killed, says Israel The CBI said its investigation has found the actual source of the leakage of Chemistry and Biology papers as well as the middlemen involved in getting in touch with students who paid lakhs of rupees to attend the special coaching classes, where the questions in the NEET UG question paper were dictated and discussed. The CBI on Friday arrested PV Kulkarni, a Chemistry lecturer associated with the examination process on behalf of the NTA. Meanwhile, Delhi’s Rouse Avenue Court on Saturday granted 10 days’ custody of accused Manisha Waghmare and PV Kulkarni to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for further interrogation in the case. The CBI told the court that both accused were part of a larger conspiracy involving the alleged obtaining and distribution of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper. The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21.

The Botany teacher, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, allegedly disclosed important questions from Botany and Zoology and made the students note down the same in their notebooks and also mark in their textbooks. Most of the questions tallied with the actual NNET-UG paper held on May 3.

CBI arrests Pune teacher, the ‘second mastermind’ who leaked NEET-UG Biology question paper

In a major breakthrough in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak investigation, the Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Professor PV Kulkarni, identifying him as the alleged “kingpin” behind the leak that triggered nationwide outrage and raised fresh questions over the credibility of the National Testing Agency.&nbsp;Kulkarni, a chemistry professor at Dayanand Medical College in Latur, was reportedly part of the committee involved in setting this year’s NEET-UG question paper. He was arrested in Pune as investigators intensified the probe into what officials described as a sophisticated insider-led operation.&nbsp;According to CBI sources, the investigation has, from the very beginning, pointed towards the involvement of insiders linked to the examination process, unlike the 2024 paper leak case, where the NTA had largely escaped allegations of internal compromise.&nbsp;The agency alleged that Kulkarni used his authorised access to the examination paper during the final week of April 2026 and coordinated with others to circulate the leaked material among selected candidates. His alleged associate, Manisha Waghmare, was arrested by the CBI on May 14.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-ug-2026-to-be-fully-online-from-next-year-dharmendra-pradhan-admits-guess-paper-leak-unveils-major-overhaul-cbt-mode-nta-corruption-1778832077492">NEET-UG exam to be fully online from next year: Dharmendra Pradhan admits ‘guess paper’ leak, unveils major overhaul</a>&nbsp;<h2>CBI gets custody of NTA insider&nbsp;</h2>Meanwhile, the Rouse Avenue Court on Friday sent accused Dhananjay Lokhande to six days of CBI custody in connection with the case. The agency told the court that Lokhande had received the leaked NEET-UG 2026 examination material from co-accused Manisha Waghmare before allegedly passing it on to another accused, Shubham Madhukar Khairnar.&nbsp;According to the CBI, leaked PDF copies of the question paper were later circulated through Telegram on April 24.&nbsp;The agency sought custodial interrogation to recover digital devices, trace financial transactions and identify possible NTA officials involved in the conspiracy. Special Judge Ajay Gupta granted the remand after hearing the submissions made by the CBI.&nbsp;Five other accused are also currently in seven-day CBI custody and are scheduled to be produced before the court on May 22.<h2>NEET-UG to shift online from next year</h2>Amid the widening controversy, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday announced that NEET-UG examinations will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from next year.&nbsp;He also confirmed that the re-examination for NEET-UG 2026 will be held on June 21, days after authorities scrapped the May 3 exam following the paper leak scandal that affected over 22 lakh aspirants across the country.&nbsp;The controversy has triggered sharp criticism of the NTA and intensified demands for stricter safeguards in national-level entrance examinations.

The CBI alleged that Kulkarni used his authorised access to the NEET-UG 2026 question paper during the final week of April and worked with others to circulate the leaked material among selected candidates. His alleged associate, Manisha Waghmare, was arrested by the CBI on May 14.

In a major breakthrough in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak investigation, the Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Professor PV Kulkarni, identifying him as the alleged “kingpin” behind the leak that triggered nationwide outrage and raised fresh questions over the credibility of the National Testing Agency. Kulkarni, a chemistry professor at Dayanand Medical College in Latur, was reportedly part of the committee involved in setting this year’s NEET-UG question paper. He was arrested in Pune as investigators intensified the probe into what officials described as a sophisticated insider-led operation. According to CBI sources, the investigation has, from the very beginning, pointed towards the involvement of insiders linked to the examination process, unlike the 2024 paper leak case, where the NTA had largely escaped allegations of internal compromise. The agency alleged that Kulkarni used his authorised access to the examination paper during the final week of April 2026 and coordinated with others to circulate the leaked material among selected candidates. His alleged associate, Manisha Waghmare, was arrested by the CBI on May 14. Also Read: NEET-UG exam to be fully online from next year: Dharmendra Pradhan admits ‘guess paper’ leak, unveils major overhaul CBI gets custody of NTA insider Meanwhile, the Rouse Avenue Court on Friday sent accused Dhananjay Lokhande to six days of CBI custody in connection with the case. The agency told the court that Lokhande had received the leaked NEET-UG 2026 examination material from co-accused Manisha Waghmare before allegedly passing it on to another accused, Shubham Madhukar Khairnar. According to the CBI, leaked PDF copies of the question paper were later circulated through Telegram on April 24. The agency sought custodial interrogation to recover digital devices, trace financial transactions and identify possible NTA officials involved in the conspiracy. Special Judge Ajay Gupta granted the remand after hearing the submissions made by the CBI. Five other accused are also currently in seven-day CBI custody and are scheduled to be produced before the court on May 22. NEET-UG to shift online from next year Amid the widening controversy, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday announced that NEET-UG examinations will be conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode from next year. He also confirmed that the re-examination for NEET-UG 2026 will be held on June 21, days after authorities scrapped the May 3 exam following the paper leak scandal that affected over 22 lakh aspirants across the country. The controversy has triggered sharp criticism of the NTA and intensified demands for stricter safeguards in national-level entrance examinations.

The CBI alleged that Kulkarni used his authorised access to the NEET-UG 2026 question paper during the final week of April and worked with others to circulate the leaked material among selected candidates. His alleged associate, Manisha Waghmare, was arrested by the CBI on May 14.

NEET-UG paper leak case: CBI arrests ‘kingpin’ chemistry professor from Pune

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday (May 15) announced that starting next year, NEET-UG examinations would be held online through Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. This comes amid a massive controversy over this year's NEET paper leak. Pradhan also confirmed that the National Testing Authority (NAT) will be holding the reexamination for NEET-UG 2026 on June 21 (Sunday). The announcement comes days after the unprecedented cancellation of the May 3 exam over a paper leak scandal that shook the credibility of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and triggered nationwide outrage among more than 22 lakh aspirants.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-when-will-re-exam-be-held-education-minister-dharmendra-pradhan-chairs-high-level-meet-1778816631278">NEET-UG 2026 paper leak: When will re-exam be held? NTA announces fresh date. Check here</a><h2>Education minister confirms paper leak</h2>At a high-stakes press conference, Pradhan made a key admission that many students had feared. "Questions have gone out under the guise of guess papers," he said. That statement effectively confirmed that what initially appeared to be speculative prep material was, in fact, linked to leaked exam content. Pradhan revealed that the verification process, which started on May 8th, lasted four days before the Centre on May 12, took the decision to cancel this year's examination.<h2>June 21 re-test: What changes now</h2>Pradhan said admit cards will be issued by June 14, while students will be given one week to re-select their preferred exam city, acknowledging that many candidates may no longer be in the same locations as their original test centres.&nbsp;The exam will also be extended by 15 minutes, shifting from the earlier 2 pm to 5 pm schedule to 2 pm to 5:15 pm, allowing extra time for attendance and procedural formalities. Additionally, in a major relief measure, all previously paid fees will be refunded, and the re-exam will be conducted with zero additional fees for candidates.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-a-kerala-student-leak-neet-ug-paper-cbi-probes-money-trail-as-reports-suggest-students-paid-rs-2-5-lakh-for-access-1778741698669">Did a Kerala student leak NEET-UG paper? CBI probing money trail as reports suggest students paid Rs 2-5 lakh for access</a><h2>‘We will not let malpractice happen again’</h2>Pradhan repeatedly stressed that the government’s “topmost priority” is protecting deserving students and preventing education mafias from sabotaging futures. "Our topmost priority is the future of the students, and the government is sensitive towards their hard work and efforts. We will not let malpractice happen this time. The government is with you. We had to make a difficult decision in the interest of the nation. We are very sad," Pradhan said.<h2>NTA under pressure, but not scrapped</h2>Despite fierce criticism, Pradhan defended the NTA, insisting the issue was a systemic examination challenge rather than institutional collapse.

NEET-UG 2026 is officially getting a reset. After a scandal big enough to force cancellation of India’s largest medical entrance exam, the government has now announced a major structural shift: from next year, NEET goes fully online. All you need to know. 

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday (May 15) announced that starting next year, NEET-UG examinations would be held online through Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. This comes amid a massive controversy over this year's NEET paper leak. Pradhan also confirmed that the National Testing Authority (NAT) will be holding the reexamination for NEET-UG 2026 on June 21 (Sunday). The announcement comes days after the unprecedented cancellation of the May 3 exam over a paper leak scandal that shook the credibility of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and triggered nationwide outrage among more than 22 lakh aspirants. Also read | NEET-UG 2026 paper leak: When will re-exam be held? NTA announces fresh date. Check here Education minister confirms paper leak At a high-stakes press conference, Pradhan made a key admission that many students had feared. "Questions have gone out under the guise of guess papers," he said. That statement effectively confirmed that what initially appeared to be speculative prep material was, in fact, linked to leaked exam content. Pradhan revealed that the verification process, which started on May 8th, lasted four days before the Centre on May 12, took the decision to cancel this year's examination. June 21 re-test: What changes now Pradhan said admit cards will be issued by June 14, while students will be given one week to re-select their preferred exam city, acknowledging that many candidates may no longer be in the same locations as their original test centres. The exam will also be extended by 15 minutes, shifting from the earlier 2 pm to 5 pm schedule to 2 pm to 5:15 pm, allowing extra time for attendance and procedural formalities. Additionally, in a major relief measure, all previously paid fees will be refunded, and the re-exam will be conducted with zero additional fees for candidates. Also read | Did a Kerala student leak NEET-UG paper? CBI probing money trail as reports suggest students paid Rs 2-5 lakh for access ‘We will not let malpractice happen again’ Pradhan repeatedly stressed that the government’s “topmost priority” is protecting deserving students and preventing education mafias from sabotaging futures. "Our topmost priority is the future of the students, and the government is sensitive towards their hard work and efforts. We will not let malpractice happen this time. The government is with you. We had to make a difficult decision in the interest of the nation. We are very sad," Pradhan said. NTA under pressure, but not scrapped Despite fierce criticism, Pradhan defended the NTA, insisting the issue was a systemic examination challenge rather than institutional collapse.

NEET-UG 2026 is officially getting a reset. After a scandal big enough to force cancellation of India’s largest medical entrance exam, the government has now announced a major structural shift: from next year, NEET goes fully online. All you need to know.&nbsp;

NEET-UG exam to be fully online from next year: Dharmendra Pradhan admits ‘guess paper’ leak, unveils major overhaul

Two days after the unprecedented cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, the Centre has formally begun work on what may be one of the most scrutinised re-examinations in India’s education history. National Testing Agency (NTA), with the approval of the Government of India, has scheduled the re-examination of NEET (UG) 2026 for Sunday, 21 June 2026.

This comes as on Thursday (May 14) night, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired the first high-level strategy meeting with top education and testing officials to map out the path forward after the May 3 medical entrance exam was scrapped over alleged paper leak allegations affecting more than 22 lakh aspirants.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/did-a-kerala-student-leak-neet-ug-paper-cbi-probes-money-trail-as-reports-suggest-students-paid-rs-2-5-lakh-for-access-1778741698669">Did a Kerala student leak NEET-UG paper? CBI probing money trail as reports suggest students paid Rs 2-5 lakh for access</a><h2>When will NEET-UG reexamination happen?</h2>In a post on X, the National Testing Agency announced that the re-examination of this year's NEET-UG will be undertaken on June 21, 2026 (Sunday)

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">📢 NEET (UG) 2026 — परीक्षा तिथि की घोषणा राष्ट्रीय परीक्षा एजेंसी ने भारत सरकार की स्वीकृति से NEET (UG) 2026 की पुनः-परीक्षा रविवार, 21 जून 2026 को आयोजित करने का निर्णय लिया है। परीक्षार्थियों एवं अभिभावकों से अनुरोध है कि वे केवल NTA के आधिकारिक माध्यमों पर ही विश्वास करें।…&mdash; National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) <a href="https://twitter.com/NTA_Exams/status/2055137353899942148?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Citing sources, ANI reported that the late-night meeting at Pradhan’s residence focused primarily on ensuring the fresh examination is conducted in a “completely safe, transparent and credible manner.”The scale of the meeting reflected the seriousness of the crisis. Among those present were Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi, School Education Secretary Sanjay Kumar, NTA Director General Abhishek Singh, CBSE Chairperson Rahul Singh, along with senior representatives from Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan and Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fuel-prices-hiked-petrol-diesel-prices-jump-by-rs-3-per-litre-as-fuel-costs-surge-1778807845685">India fuel prices hiked: Petrol, diesel prices jump Rs 3 despite govt’s ‘ample stock’ claim | Check city-wise prices HERE</a><h2>CBI widens conspiracy probe</h2>Even as re-exam planning accelerates, the criminal investigation is deepening. A Delhi court has granted the CBI seven days’ custody of five accused, including Mangilal Biwal, Dinesh Biwal, Vikas Biwal, Shubham Khairnar and Yash Yadav, as investigators probe what the court itself described as a potential “larger conspiracy.”According to investigators, the alleged leak chain moved from Shubham to Yash, then through Mangilal and Dinesh, with accusations that leaked papers were sold to candidates for as much as Rs 12 lakh each.The court also flagged deleted mobile data and possible evidence tampering, underscoring fears that the operation may involve a wider organised network.

India’s NEET paper leak exam crisis is now entering phase two. After NEET-UG 2026’s cancellation shocked over 22 lakh students, the government has begun planning a re-exam under intense national scrutiny, while the CBI deepens its probe. Scroll down.

Two days after the unprecedented cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, the Centre has formally begun work on what may be one of the most scrutinised re-examinations in India’s education history. National Testing Agency (NTA), with the approval of the Government of India, has scheduled the re-examination of NEET (UG) 2026 for Sunday, 21 June 2026.

India’s NEET paper leak exam crisis is now entering phase two. After NEET-UG 2026’s cancellation shocked over 22 lakh students, the government has begun planning a re-exam under intense national scrutiny, while the CBI deepens its probe. Scroll down.

NEET-UG 2026 paper leak: When will re-exam be held? NTA announces fresh date. Check here

The Central Bureau of Investigation informed a Delhi court on Thursday (May 14) that the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper was traced back to a source within the National Testing Agency (NTA). The revelation was recorded in an order passed by Special Judge Ajay Kumar Gupta of the Rouse Avenue Courts while granting seven-day CBI custody of five accused in the case. According to the court order, the accused Shubham Khairnar had obtained the said paper from another person from Pune, who had obtained the same from his NTA source. The CBI told the court it is now attempting to identify the NTA officials and other government personnel allegedly involved in leaking the examination paper.&nbsp;The case emerged after NEET-UG 2026 was cancelled on May 12, just nine days after more than 2.27 million candidates appeared for the medical entrance examination across 551 cities nationwide. Central agencies had confirmed that the question paper had been compromised. In its remand application, the CBI said that a PDF containing nearly 500-600 questions was circulating on Telegram as early as April 29, four days before the examination. Investigators later found that 180 of those questions were ‘precisely identical’ to the actual NEET-UG paper. The agency said it needed custody of the accused to unearth a larger conspiracy and the source of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper, and also to identify the officials of NTA and other departments linked to the leak.&nbsp;The five individuals remanded to CBI custody are Yash Yadav from Gurugram, Mangilal Khatik, Vikash Biwal, Dinesh Biwal from Jaipur, and Shubham Khairnar from Nashik. All were brought to Delhi on transit remand from their respective states. Separately, the agency arrested Dhananjay Lokhanda from Ahilyanagar and Manisha Waghmare from Pune on Thursday. CBI officials conducted raids at 14 locations over the past 24 hours and recovered digital evidence, including mobile phones, incriminating chats, and leaked question papers. Investigators said some deleted data would require forensic examination. A CBI team also visited the NTA headquarters in Delhi to gather documents relevant to the investigation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-fuel-prices-hiked-petrol-diesel-prices-jump-by-rs-3-per-litre-as-fuel-costs-surge-1778807845685">India fuel prices hiked: Petrol, diesel prices jump Rs 3 despite govt’s ‘ample stock’ claim | Check city wise prices HERE</a>&nbsp;“Several other suspects are currently being examined,” a CBI spokesperson said. According to the investigation so far, Khairnar allegedly received the leaked paper from the unnamed Pune-based contact before informing Yash Yadav in April that Mangilal Khatik was willing to pay ₹10-12 lakh for leaked NEET questions for his younger son. On April 29, Khairnar allegedly shared 500-600 Physics, Chemistry, and Biology questions with Yadav via Telegram. Yadav reportedly knew Mangilal’s elder son Vikash Biwal from NEET coaching classes in Rajasthan’s Sikar, which investigators say helped establish the connection.&nbsp;The CBI alleged that the deal was finalized at ₹10 lakh, provided that at least 150 questions matched the actual NEET examination paper. Investigators claimed Mangilal received printed copies of the leaked paper and distributed them among relatives and acquaintances scheduled to appear for the exam. “All communication with Yash Yadav was made by Mangilal. The PDFs were printed, and three printed sets were distributed,” the agency said. The agency further alleged that Yadav encouraged Vikash to recruit additional candidates in order to recover money spent obtaining the leaked questions. Candidate details were reportedly shared via WhatsApp and Instagram. Senior public prosecutor Neetu Singh told the court that investigators needed to “probe a larger conspiracy to unearth how the examination paper was leaked and how far it was distributed.”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kejriwal-liquor-case-justice-sharma-initiates-contempt-proceedings-against-kejriwal-1778810382519/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/kejriwal-liquor-case-justice-sharma-initiates-contempt-proceedings-against-kejriwal-1778810382519/embed</a>&nbsp;He added that the role of public servants connected to the offence still needed investigation, including possible involvement of the printing press hired by the accused persons. The CBI argued that custodial interrogation was necessary to prevent further commission of similar offences involving leakage of question papers, to identify and apprehend other co-accused persons involved in the offence.&nbsp;Officials said the agency is now focusing on identifying the alleged ‘NTA source’ connected to the Pune-based intermediary, a key link that could explain how the question paper left official custody. “CBI is pursuing all the leads about this case,” the agency said. The defence opposed the remand request, arguing that the arrests were illegal and claiming the accused had not been informed of the grounds for arrest. Lawyers also argued that custodial interrogation was unnecessary.

CBI told a Delhi court that the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak traces back to an alleged NTA source amid a widening investigation

The Central Bureau of Investigation informed a Delhi court on Thursday (May 14) that the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper was traced back to a source within the National Testing Agency (NTA). The revelation was recorded in an order passed by Special Judge Ajay Kumar Gupta of the Rouse Avenue Courts while granting seven-day CBI custody of five accused in the case. According to the court order, the accused Shubham Khairnar had obtained the said paper from another person from Pune, who had obtained the same from his NTA source. The CBI told the court it is now attempting to identify the NTA officials and other government personnel allegedly involved in leaking the examination paper. The case emerged after NEET-UG 2026 was cancelled on May 12, just nine days after more than 2.27 million candidates appeared for the medical entrance examination across 551 cities nationwide. Central agencies had confirmed that the question paper had been compromised. In its remand application, the CBI said that a PDF containing nearly 500-600 questions was circulating on Telegram as early as April 29, four days before the examination. Investigators later found that 180 of those questions were ‘precisely identical’ to the actual NEET-UG paper. The agency said it needed custody of the accused to unearth a larger conspiracy and the source of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper, and also to identify the officials of NTA and other departments linked to the leak. The five individuals remanded to CBI custody are Yash Yadav from Gurugram, Mangilal Khatik, Vikash Biwal, Dinesh Biwal from Jaipur, and Shubham Khairnar from Nashik. All were brought to Delhi on transit remand from their respective states. Separately, the agency arrested Dhananjay Lokhanda from Ahilyanagar and Manisha Waghmare from Pune on Thursday. CBI officials conducted raids at 14 locations over the past 24 hours and recovered digital evidence, including mobile phones, incriminating chats, and leaked question papers. Investigators said some deleted data would require forensic examination. A CBI team also visited the NTA headquarters in Delhi to gather documents relevant to the investigation. Also Read: India fuel prices hiked: Petrol, diesel prices jump Rs 3 despite govt’s ‘ample stock’ claim | Check city wise prices HERE “Several other suspects are currently being examined,” a CBI spokesperson said. According to the investigation so far, Khairnar allegedly received the leaked paper from the unnamed Pune-based contact before informing Yash Yadav in April that Mangilal Khatik was willing to pay ₹10-12 lakh for leaked NEET questions for his younger son. On April 29, Khairnar allegedly shared 500-600 Physics, Chemistry, and Biology questions with Yadav via Telegram. Yadav reportedly knew Mangilal’s elder son Vikash Biwal from NEET coaching classes in Rajasthan’s Sikar, which investigators say helped establish the connection. The CBI alleged that the deal was finalized at ₹10 lakh, provided that at least 150 questions matched the actual NEET examination paper. Investigators claimed Mangilal received printed copies of the leaked paper and distributed them among relatives and acquaintances scheduled to appear for the exam. “All communication with Yash Yadav was made by Mangilal. The PDFs were printed, and three printed sets were distributed,” the agency said. The agency further alleged that Yadav encouraged Vikash to recruit additional candidates in order to recover money spent obtaining the leaked questions. Candidate details were reportedly shared via WhatsApp and Instagram. Senior public prosecutor Neetu Singh told the court that investigators needed to “probe a larger conspiracy to unearth how the examination paper was leaked and how far it was distributed.” https://www.wionews.com/videos/kejriwal-liquor-case-justice-sharma-initiates-contempt-proceedings-against-kejriwal-1778810382519/embed He added that the role of public servants connected to the offence still needed investigation, including possible involvement of the printing press hired by the accused persons. The CBI argued that custodial interrogation was necessary to prevent further commission of similar offences involving leakage of question papers, to identify and apprehend other co-accused persons involved in the offence. Officials said the agency is now focusing on identifying the alleged ‘NTA source’ connected to the Pune-based intermediary, a key link that could explain how the question paper left official custody. “CBI is pursuing all the leads about this case,” the agency said. The defence opposed the remand request, arguing that the arrests were illegal and claiming the accused had not been informed of the grounds for arrest. Lawyers also argued that custodial interrogation was unnecessary.

The CBI told a Delhi court the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak originated from an alleged NTA source as the investigation expands

NEET-UG 2026 paper leak originated from 'NTA source', CBI tells court; 2 more arrested

What began as whispers about a "guess paper" in Rajasthan has now exploded into one of the biggest exam scandals India has seen in years, a sprawling NEET-UG 2026 leak trail that appears to stretch from Kerala hostels and Sikar coaching hubs to Gurugram, Nashik and now the CBI’s doorstep. At the centre of it all is a PDF. Reports suggest that the PDF has been traced back to a student from Rajasthan's Sikar pursuing MBBS in Kerala.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/law-banning-hijab-wearing-of-religion-based-symbols-in-educational-institutions-revoked-in-karnataka-1778738120060">Law banning hijab, wearing of religion-based symbols in educational institutions revoked in Karnataka</a><h2>What was in the guess paper?</h2>According to investigators, the so-called guess paper, initially dismissed by many students as just another pre-exam question bank, contained around 45 chemistry questions and 90 biology questions with answers that allegedly matched the actual NEET-UG 2026 paper held on May 3.The trail, Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group says, began with an MBBS student from Sikar studying in Kerala, who allegedly received the material from a friend before forwarding it to contacts back home, including friends and a hostel owner in Sikar. From there, it reportedly spread through coaching circles, hostel groups and password-protected digital networks, including one group named "Private Mafia." Notably, the hostel owner who had circulated the material later alerted the police himself, and that tip-off appears to have cracked open the case.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-fir-in-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-multi-state-syndicate-exposed-1778609461848">CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed</a><h2>Investigators question over 150 students</h2>As investigators dug deeper, more than 150 students, parents and associates were questioned. Investigators found that it may have been bigger than just a local leak, and could potentially be an organised interstate syndicate. Citing CBI sources, ANI reported that students may have paid anywhere between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh for access to the NEET paper questions. One accused, Yash Yadav, allegedly helped route the paper into Rajasthan, while another suspect's father is accused of scanning the hard copy into distributable PDFs.The police said that they have recovered chats which reveal a clear "money transaction trail". They have identified several medical college students suspected of being part of the syndicate. &nbsp;"...we have seized mobile phones that have chats on them, and laptops. The chats reveal the money transaction trail. It also has information about students of other medical colleges...we have not found any question paper or guess paper on the phones..." Rajgir DSP Sunil Kumar Singh told ANI.<h2>NEET 2026 cancelled</h2>NEET-UG 2026, taken by nearly 22.8 lakh students across India and abroad on May 3, has been cancelled altogether. The investigation amid massive protests from students has widened beyond Rajasthan.

NEET-UG 2026 may be remembered less as an exam and more as a nationwide scandal. What started as a “guess paper” in Rajasthan now looks like a sprawling leak network stretching across multiple states. Scroll down for the latest.

What began as whispers about a "guess paper" in Rajasthan has now exploded into one of the biggest exam scandals India has seen in years, a sprawling NEET-UG 2026 leak trail that appears to stretch from Kerala hostels and Sikar coaching hubs to Gurugram, Nashik and now the CBI’s doorstep. At the centre of it all is a PDF. Reports suggest that the PDF has been traced back to a student from Rajasthan's Sikar pursuing MBBS in Kerala. Also read | Law banning hijab, wearing of religion-based symbols in educational institutions revoked in Karnataka What was in the guess paper? According to investigators, the so-called guess paper, initially dismissed by many students as just another pre-exam question bank, contained around 45 chemistry questions and 90 biology questions with answers that allegedly matched the actual NEET-UG 2026 paper held on May 3. The trail, Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group says, began with an MBBS student from Sikar studying in Kerala, who allegedly received the material from a friend before forwarding it to contacts back home, including friends and a hostel owner in Sikar. From there, it reportedly spread through coaching circles, hostel groups and password-protected digital networks, including one group named "Private Mafia." Notably, the hostel owner who had circulated the material later alerted the police himself, and that tip-off appears to have cracked open the case. Also read | CBI files FIR in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak; multi-state syndicate exposed Investigators question over 150 students As investigators dug deeper, more than 150 students, parents and associates were questioned. Investigators found that it may have been bigger than just a local leak, and could potentially be an organised interstate syndicate. Citing CBI sources, ANI reported that students may have paid anywhere between Rs 2 lakh and Rs 5 lakh for access to the NEET paper questions. One accused, Yash Yadav, allegedly helped route the paper into Rajasthan, while another suspect's father is accused of scanning the hard copy into distributable PDFs. The police said that they have recovered chats which reveal a clear "money transaction trail". They have identified several medical college students suspected of being part of the syndicate. "...we have seized mobile phones that have chats on them, and laptops. The chats reveal the money transaction trail. It also has information about students of other medical colleges...we have not found any question paper or guess paper on the phones..." Rajgir DSP Sunil Kumar Singh told ANI. NEET 2026 cancelled NEET-UG 2026, taken by nearly 22.8 lakh students across India and abroad on May 3, has been cancelled altogether. The investigation amid massive protests from students has widened beyond Rajasthan.

NEET-UG 2026 may be remembered less as an exam and more as a nationwide scandal. What started as a “guess paper” in Rajasthan now looks like a sprawling leak network stretching across multiple states. Scroll down for the latest.

Did a Kerala student leak NEET-UG paper? CBI probing money trail as reports suggest students paid Rs 2-5 lakh for access

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