The Government of India has invited suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders as it works on reforms to strengthen the country's public examination system.&nbsp;The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF), headed by Nandan Nilekani, has sought inputs from students, parents, teachers, academic institutions, technology professionals and other stakeholders on ways to make examinations more secure, transparent, accessible and student-friendly.&nbsp;"The High-Powered Task Force on Reforms in Public Examinations wants to hear from students, parents, teachers, every citizen," a government statement said.&nbsp;Constituted by the Government of India, the task force has been tasked with examining and recommending comprehensive reforms related to the conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).&nbsp;The government has identified several broad areas where stakeholders can submit their suggestions. These include the conduct and security of public examinations, with a focus on strengthening examination processes and protecting their integrity.&nbsp;Stakeholders can also share their views on examination design and assessment methodology, along with governance, accountability and institutional arrangements governing public examinations.&nbsp;Another key area is the prevention, detection and redressal of examination malpractices. The task force is seeking suggestions on ways to strengthen safeguards against irregularities and improve mechanisms for addressing them.&nbsp;The HPTF is also examining the role of technology in public examinations, including the use of secure Computer-Based Testing (CBT).&nbsp;Suggestions are also being sought on the creation and augmentation of examination infrastructure. The task force is looking at ways to strengthen the physical and technological infrastructure needed to conduct examinations at scale.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-fda-cancels-cipla-facility-drug-licences-over-reactin-plus-irregularities-1787928604719">Maharashtra FDA cancels Cipla facility drug licences over Reactin Plus irregularities</a><h2>Where can you submit suggestions?</h2>Stakeholders can submit their suggestions until September 13, 2026. Submissions can be made in English, Hindi and regional languages through the dedicated public consultation portal.&nbsp;Suggestions can also be submitted by calling 1800-180-4747. Stakeholders can send "hptf" to +91 78270 42830 on WhatsApp or email their inputs to ExamReformsTaskforce@dopt.gov.in. The government has also provided a direct WhatsApp link for submissions through the consultation portal.The government said the inputs received through the public consultation will assist the High-Powered Task Force in formulating its recommendations to the Centre.&nbsp;The HPTF has called for active, constructive and wide-ranging participation from all stakeholders as it works on recommendations to reform the public examination system.

The Government of India has invited suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders for reforms aimed at making public examinations more secure, transparent, accessible and student-friendly.

The Government of India has invited suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders as it works on reforms to strengthen the country's public examination system. The High-Powered Task Force (HPTF), headed by Nandan Nilekani, has sought inputs from students, parents, teachers, academic institutions, technology professionals and other stakeholders on ways to make examinations more secure, transparent, accessible and student-friendly. "The High-Powered Task Force on Reforms in Public Examinations wants to hear from students, parents, teachers, every citizen," a government statement said. Constituted by the Government of India, the task force has been tasked with examining and recommending comprehensive reforms related to the conduct, security, design and governance of public examinations, including examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The government has identified several broad areas where stakeholders can submit their suggestions. These include the conduct and security of public examinations, with a focus on strengthening examination processes and protecting their integrity. Stakeholders can also share their views on examination design and assessment methodology, along with governance, accountability and institutional arrangements governing public examinations. Another key area is the prevention, detection and redressal of examination malpractices. The task force is seeking suggestions on ways to strengthen safeguards against irregularities and improve mechanisms for addressing them. The HPTF is also examining the role of technology in public examinations, including the use of secure Computer-Based Testing (CBT). Suggestions are also being sought on the creation and augmentation of examination infrastructure. The task force is looking at ways to strengthen the physical and technological infrastructure needed to conduct examinations at scale. Also Read: Maharashtra FDA cancels Cipla facility drug licences over Reactin Plus irregularities Where can you submit suggestions? Stakeholders can submit their suggestions until September 13, 2026. Submissions can be made in English, Hindi and regional languages through the dedicated public consultation portal. Suggestions can also be submitted by calling 1800-180-4747. Stakeholders can send "hptf" to +91 78270 42830 on WhatsApp or email their inputs to ExamReformsTaskforce@dopt.gov.in. The government has also provided a direct WhatsApp link for submissions through the consultation portal. The government said the inputs received through the public consultation will assist the High-Powered Task Force in formulating its recommendations to the Centre. The HPTF has called for active, constructive and wide-ranging participation from all stakeholders as it works on recommendations to reform the public examination system.

The Government of India has invited suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders for reforms aimed at making public examinations more secure, transparent, accessible and student-friendly.

Have suggestions on exams? Govt seeks public input on exam reforms, share it here

The Union government on Tuesday announced a major overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and revamped its examination team by removing 600 experts and deciding to onboard new experts to enhance transparency and accountability. Besides, a four-tier paper checking system will be put in place to strengthen the scrutiny of examination papers.&nbsp;In another staffing measure, around 20-25 officials will be inducted in the next two to three weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;NTA offices will be shifted to the new premises at Minto Road on a war footing, where security will be reinforced with CISF teams.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-ceasefire-now-war-must-come-to-a-permanent-end-says-iran-s-foreign-minister-abbas-araghchi-1787080893639">‘No ceasefire now, war must come to a permanent end,’ says Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi</a>&nbsp;After recent lapses in the UGC-NET papers and the NEET-UG medical exam paper leak earlier, the Education Ministry has been in an overdrive to set things in order at NTA.&nbsp;Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi chaired a review meeting on Monday and directed the NTA to strengthen examination security and paper scrutiny.Joshi directed the NTA to conduct a thorough audit of all its examination processes and submit a corrective-action report within 30 days, following errors in the UGC-NET June 2026 question papers that led to re-examinations in three subjects.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">As a follow up meeting on NTA, Union Education Minister Shri <a href="https://x.com/JoshiPralhad?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoshiPralhad</a> directed that all necessary security and related infrastructural facilities should be put in place for the smooth conduct of examinations. Following directions from the Minister, DG, NTA apprised on the… <a href="https://t.co/SCSnko504d">pic.twitter.com/SCSnko504d</a>&mdash; Ministry of Education (@EduMinOfIndia) <a href="https://x.com/EduMinOfIndia/status/2089732255082262832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iaea-chief-rafael-grossi-says-agency-found-tonnes-of-nuclear-material-in-syria-1787067845191">IAEA chief Rafael Grossi says agency found ‘tonnes of nuclear material’ in Syria</a> The ministry said on Tuesday evening that Joshi had directed that all necessary security and related infrastructural facilities should be put in place for the smooth conduct of examinations.NTA Director General Abhishek Singh apprised the ministry of actions taken by the Agency, which is responsible for several examinations in the country. “A revamp of the examination team was undertaken with 600 experts being removed and new experts being onboarded,” the ministry said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-won-both-war-and-diplomacy-araghchi-says-conflict-completely-dispelled-notion-of-tehran-s-weakness-1787060840037">‘Iran won both war and diplomacy’: Araghchi says conflict ‘completely dispelled’ notion of Tehran’s weakness</a> A four-tier question paper checking system will also be put in place to strengthen the scrutiny of examination papers, it added.Besides, 20-25 officials will be inducted in the next two to three weeks, while a further induction plan was also reviewed.The NTA offices will be shifted to new premises on a war footing where security will be reinforced with CISF teams, the ministry added. The NTA conducts major entrance and eligibility examinations, including JEE (Main), NEET (UG), CUET (UG), and UGC-NET.

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi directed the NTA to conduct a thorough audit of all its examination processes and submit a corrective-action report within 30 days, following errors in the UGC-NET June 2026 question papers that led to re-examinations in three subjects.

The Union government on Tuesday announced a major overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and revamped its examination team by removing 600 experts and deciding to onboard new experts to enhance transparency and accountability. Besides, a four-tier paper checking system will be put in place to strengthen the scrutiny of examination papers. In another staffing measure, around 20-25 officials will be inducted in the next two to three weeks. NTA offices will be shifted to the new premises at Minto Road on a war footing, where security will be reinforced with CISF teams. Also Read: ‘No ceasefire now, war must come to a permanent end,’ says Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi After recent lapses in the UGC-NET papers and the NEET-UG medical exam paper leak earlier, the Education Ministry has been in an overdrive to set things in order at NTA. Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi chaired a review meeting on Monday and directed the NTA to strengthen examination security and paper scrutiny. Joshi directed the NTA to conduct a thorough audit of all its examination processes and submit a corrective-action report within 30 days, following errors in the UGC-NET June 2026 question papers that led to re-examinations in three subjects.

Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi directed the NTA to conduct a thorough audit of all its examination processes and submit a corrective-action report within 30 days, following errors in the UGC-NET June 2026 question papers that led to re-examinations in three subjects.

NTA overhaul after paper leak: 600 experts out, four-tier paper checking, and CISF security

Imagine you have been preparing for a government job for 3 years and appearing for the different exams, but the paper gets leaked, cancelled or delayed due to some irregularities, at the state level or the central level. This not only drains students' mental well-being but also physical and economical as these exams make aspirants study continuously with no job and no physical activity, always occupied with completing their syllabus for years. The most shocking part comes when the students find that they got 299 marks out of 300 but still could not make it to the result, and those who got fewer marks than the candidates he still able to qualify. So, this is not just an example but a reflection of the destruction of the genuine and poor students' careers who are planning to get either a decent job to bring financial stability for their house or attempting to get a reputed college to accomplish their studies with better infrastructure and good facilities at minimum fees. The anxiety for millions of Indian students no longer begins on exam day, but it starts much earlier. A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.<h3>Multiple paper leak incidents</h3>The most recent development has been the NEET-UG paper leak incident that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. During the probe of this paper leak, the CBI's chargesheet revealed how subject experts allegedly smuggled exam questions out of the National Testing Agency's own "confidential section", using paper chits, memorised answers, and marked textbook passages. For students who spend years preparing for a single make-or-break exam, revelations like these are more than administrative failures; they strike at the core belief that hard work and merit will be fairly rewarded. Similarly, Students in Jharkhand, especially in Ranchi, have been protesting since July 25, 2026, over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the 14th JPSC (Jharkhand Public Service Commission) Preliminary Examination, along with wider concerns about the JSSC CGL and other competitive exams. Students have been staging protests over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams. Other than Jharkhand, several instances of paper leaks or irregularities have been reported in multiple states in the recent past.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-reveals-digital-trail-behind-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-through-whatsapp-groups-telegram-chats-and-photos-1786097020958">CBI reveals digital trail behind NEET UG 2026 paper leak through WhatsApp groups, Telegram chats and photos</a><h3>How can paper leak affect students?</h3>Seeing this, students who once witnessed exams as a test of preparation and merit-based entry for jobs or colleges are now increasingly seeing it as a lottery vulnerable to manipulation. Continuous incidents, whether real leaks or rumours circulating on social media, can frequently trigger heightened exam anxiety, disrupted sleep, and a creeping sense of helplessness among aspirants who have no control over systemic lapses. Experts have also noted that this uncertainty can significantly affect the psychology of a child, trapping the mind of a young person in a state of chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. Echoing the concern about the rise in stress and anxiety, SeemaRekha, Founder and Managing Director, Antarmanh Consulting, said, "Competitive examinations are often regarded as a passport for future success; however, the uncertainty involved in the process can significantly affect the psychology of a child. The delays, changes in the pattern of the exams, and an uncertain outcome of the process can trap the mind of a young person in the state of chronic stress, which is characterised by the inability to accept and plan one’s future due to the months and even years of hard work." "It can result in anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. In addition, over time, students may start to internalise these labels, only in accordance with their results in exams, thus creating unnecessary stress when encountering failures. It is vital to realise that parents, teachers, and educational institutions should understand the importance of their mental health alongside academic achievements. Talking, keeping a healthy lifestyle, consulting psychologists, and understanding that one examination is not capable of defining a person's abilities is what can help," she added. Highlighting similar concern, Pratishtha Trivedi Mirza, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Amaha, said, "Every year, I meet students who tell me the hardest part isn’t the exam; it’s not knowing, day after day, whether what they’re doing is even enough. Preparing for competitive exams entails no real way to know if you’re on track, and that not-knowing is exhausting in a way people don’t always recognise. It shows up as disrupted sleep, a shorter temper, and self-worth quietly tied to a rank they haven’t earned yet. We usually ask if a student is preparing hard enough. The better question is whether they have one steady thing to depend on through it all, a routine, a person, a relationship, that stays constant no matter how the preparation is going. Most don’t. Uncertainty is hard to remove, but it gets easier to carry when there is one certainty in a student’s life to come back to." This failure doesn't limit students to only emotional distress but, due to delayed results, re-examinations, and legal battles, also affects admission, scholarships, and career plans. For students from smaller towns and modest financial backgrounds, who often pour their family's limited resources into coaching and preparation — a leak-tainted exam can feel like a betrayal of sacrifice as much as a bureaucratic failure.&nbsp;

A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.

Imagine you have been preparing for a government job for 3 years and appearing for the different exams, but the paper gets leaked, cancelled or delayed due to some irregularities, at the state level or the central level. This not only drains students' mental well-being but also physical and economical as these exams make aspirants study continuously with no job and no physical activity, always occupied with completing their syllabus for years. The most shocking part comes when the students find that they got 299 marks out of 300 but still could not make it to the result, and those who got fewer marks than the candidates he still able to qualify. So, this is not just an example but a reflection of the destruction of the genuine and poor students' careers who are planning to get either a decent job to bring financial stability for their house or attempting to get a reputed college to accomplish their studies with better infrastructure and good facilities at minimum fees. The anxiety for millions of Indian students no longer begins on exam day, but it starts much earlier. A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them. Multiple paper leak incidents The most recent development has been the NEET-UG paper leak incident that led to the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. During the probe of this paper leak, the CBI's chargesheet revealed how subject experts allegedly smuggled exam questions out of the National Testing Agency's own "confidential section", using paper chits, memorised answers, and marked textbook passages. For students who spend years preparing for a single make-or-break exam, revelations like these are more than administrative failures; they strike at the core belief that hard work and merit will be fairly rewarded. Similarly, Students in Jharkhand, especially in Ranchi, have been protesting since July 25, 2026, over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the 14th JPSC (Jharkhand Public Service Commission) Preliminary Examination, along with wider concerns about the JSSC CGL and other competitive exams. Students have been staging protests over alleged irregularities and paper leaks in the JPSC, JSSC CGL, and various other competitive exams. Other than Jharkhand, several instances of paper leaks or irregularities have been reported in multiple states in the recent past. Also read: CBI reveals digital trail behind NEET UG 2026 paper leak through WhatsApp groups, Telegram chats and photos How can paper leak affect students? Seeing this, students who once witnessed exams as a test of preparation and merit-based entry for jobs or colleges are now increasingly seeing it as a lottery vulnerable to manipulation. Continuous incidents, whether real leaks or rumours circulating on social media, can frequently trigger heightened exam anxiety, disrupted sleep, and a creeping sense of helplessness among aspirants who have no control over systemic lapses. Experts have also noted that this uncertainty can significantly affect the psychology of a child, trapping the mind of a young person in a state of chronic stress, anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. Echoing the concern about the rise in stress and anxiety, SeemaRekha, Founder and Managing Director, Antarmanh Consulting, said, "Competitive examinations are often regarded as a passport for future success; however, the uncertainty involved in the process can significantly affect the psychology of a child. The delays, changes in the pattern of the exams, and an uncertain outcome of the process can trap the mind of a young person in the state of chronic stress, which is characterised by the inability to accept and plan one’s future due to the months and even years of hard work." "It can result in anxiety, self-doubt, dysfunctional sleeping patterns, emotional burnout, and constant concern about falling behind other students. In addition, over time, students may start to internalise these labels, only in accordance with their results in exams, thus creating unnecessary stress when encountering failures. It is vital to realise that parents, teachers, and educational institutions should understand the importance of their mental health alongside academic achievements. Talking, keeping a healthy lifestyle, consulting psychologists, and understanding that one examination is not capable of defining a person's abilities is what can help," she added. Highlighting similar concern, Pratishtha Trivedi Mirza, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Amaha, said, "Every year, I meet students who tell me the hardest part isn’t the exam; it’s not knowing, day after day, whether what they’re doing is even enough. Preparing for competitive exams entails no real way to know if you’re on track, and that not-knowing is exhausting in a way people don’t always recognise. It shows up as disrupted sleep, a shorter temper, and self-worth quietly tied to a rank they haven’t earned yet. We usually ask if a student is preparing hard enough. The better question is whether they have one steady thing to depend on through it all, a routine, a person, a relationship, that stays constant no matter how the preparation is going. Most don’t. Uncertainty is hard to remove, but it gets easier to carry when there is one certainty in a student’s life to come back to." This failure doesn't limit students to only emotional distress but, due to delayed results, re-examinations, and legal battles, also affects admission, scholarships, and career plans. For students from smaller towns and modest financial backgrounds, who often pour their family's limited resources into coaching and preparation — a leak-tainted exam can feel like a betrayal of sacrifice as much as a bureaucratic failure.

A string of paper leak controversies in recent years, from NEET-UG to state-level recruitment exams, has left aspirants increasingly uncertain about the sanctity of the very systems meant to evaluate them.

How repeated paper leaks are breaking students before they begin their journey? EXPLAINED

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case before the Special CBI Court at Rouse Avenue, alleging that messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and an intrinsic digital network were used to leak the examination paper days before the test. According to the agency, forensic analysis of mobile phones seized during the investigation uncovered chats, PDF files, photographs of the question paper, and other digital evidence. Investigators said the electronic evidence helped reconstruct the chain of events through which confidential examination material allegedly moved from National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts to intermediaries and eventually to candidates.&nbsp;The NEET UG examination was conducted on May 3 but was later cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. A re-examination was held on June 21. The controversy also had a tragic impact, with several students reportedly dying by suicide after the paper leak surfaced. NEET is among India's toughest competitive examinations and serves as the national-level entrance test for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses. The examination is conducted by the National Testing Agency.<h2>‘AP Broker’ contact and ‘NEET 2026’ WhatsApp group</h2>According to the CBI, the main accused, Yash Yadav, had PDF copies of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper stored on his phone. Forensic analysis also revealed frequent communication on Telegram with a contact saved as "AP Broker," who was later identified as co-accused Shubham Madhukar Khairnar. Investigators also recovered similar digital evidence from the devices of other accused individuals. Among them was an alleged WhatsApp group titled 'NEET 2026', found on the phone of accused Manisha Sanjay Waghmare. The CBI alleges that the group formed part of the communication network used to circulate the leaked examination paper.&nbsp;The investigation indicates that the confidential question paper passed through multiple intermediaries, including subject experts, private brokers, and operators, before allegedly reaching students, rather than being leaked directly from NTA experts to candidates. Call detail records, mobile phone extraction reports, and forensic analysis of seized electronic devices reportedly corroborated witness statements and established communication links among the accused. The CBI further said that the electronic evidence matched the sequence of events described by witnesses during the investigation.<h2>Blank cheques and educational certificates used as security</h2>The investigation also revealed alleged financial arrangements linked to the paper leak. According to the CBI, blank signed cheques, original educational certificates, and other documents were exchanged as security to guarantee payments after the leaked paper was delivered. The agency has treated these recoveries as corroborative evidence supporting the alleged commercial conspiracy behind the examination paper leak.&nbsp;A total of 13 accused, including three NTA-appointed subject experts, have been chargesheeted under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The CBI maintains that the electronic trail recovered during the investigation forms a crucial piece of evidence against the accused.

CBI chargesheet in the NEET UG 2026 paper leak case alleges WhatsApp and Telegram were used to leak the question paper. Digital evidence, forensic reports, PDFs, chats and 13 accused named

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a chargesheet in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case before the Special CBI Court at Rouse Avenue, alleging that messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and an intrinsic digital network were used to leak the examination paper days before the test. According to the agency, forensic analysis of mobile phones seized during the investigation uncovered chats, PDF files, photographs of the question paper, and other digital evidence. Investigators said the electronic evidence helped reconstruct the chain of events through which confidential examination material allegedly moved from National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts to intermediaries and eventually to candidates. The NEET UG examination was conducted on May 3 but was later cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. A re-examination was held on June 21. The controversy also had a tragic impact, with several students reportedly dying by suicide after the paper leak surfaced. NEET is among India's toughest competitive examinations and serves as the national-level entrance test for admission to undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses. The examination is conducted by the National Testing Agency. ‘AP Broker’ contact and ‘NEET 2026’ WhatsApp group According to the CBI, the main accused, Yash Yadav, had PDF copies of the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper stored on his phone. Forensic analysis also revealed frequent communication on Telegram with a contact saved as "AP Broker," who was later identified as co-accused Shubham Madhukar Khairnar. Investigators also recovered similar digital evidence from the devices of other accused individuals. Among them was an alleged WhatsApp group titled 'NEET 2026', found on the phone of accused Manisha Sanjay Waghmare. The CBI alleges that the group formed part of the communication network used to circulate the leaked examination paper. The investigation indicates that the confidential question paper passed through multiple intermediaries, including subject experts, private brokers, and operators, before allegedly reaching students, rather than being leaked directly from NTA experts to candidates. Call detail records, mobile phone extraction reports, and forensic analysis of seized electronic devices reportedly corroborated witness statements and established communication links among the accused. The CBI further said that the electronic evidence matched the sequence of events described by witnesses during the investigation. Blank cheques and educational certificates used as security The investigation also revealed alleged financial arrangements linked to the paper leak. According to the CBI, blank signed cheques, original educational certificates, and other documents were exchanged as security to guarantee payments after the leaked paper was delivered. The agency has treated these recoveries as corroborative evidence supporting the alleged commercial conspiracy behind the examination paper leak. A total of 13 accused, including three NTA-appointed subject experts, have been chargesheeted under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The CBI maintains that the electronic trail recovered during the investigation forms a crucial piece of evidence against the accused.

CBI's NEET UG 2026 chargesheet alleges WhatsApp, Telegram, PDFs and digital chats were used to leak the exam paper. Forensic evidence, call records and seized devices reportedly link 13 accused

CBI reveals digital trail behind NEET UG 2026 paper leak through WhatsApp groups, Telegram chats and photos

The CBI investigation into the NEET (UG) paper leak has found that three subject experts used different methods to take out exam questions from the National Testing Agency (NTA) office in Delhi. The methods varied; one expert scribbled the questions on paper chits before concealing them, while the other two memorised the questions, then returned to their hotel room to pen down or mark relevant sections in NCERT textbooks. The CBI says this was possible because the three were not searched while leaving the "confidential section," a wing on the first floor of the NTA office that also had no dedicated control room for live CCTV monitoring. The three subject experts, among 13 people named in a chargesheet filed before a Delhi fast-track court on July 28, have been identified by the CBI as NTA Biology expert Manisha Mandhare, NTA Chemistry expert Pralhad Vithalrao Kulkarni, and NTA Physics expert Manisha Sanjay Havaldar. The CBI states that the three had been given plain sheets of paper inside the NTA "confidential section" for rough translation work.&nbsp;Also read: In response, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-ordinary-indian-users-have-to-pay-for-upi-nirmala-sitharaman-breaks-silence-on-congress-mdr-fee-claim-1786079378525">Will ordinary Indian users have to pay for UPI? Nirmala Sitharaman breaks silence on Congress' MDR fee claim</a><h3>CBI probe</h3>The CBI investigation found Kulkarni had used the sheets to make small chits and reportedly scribbled all 135 Chemistry questions in brief along with the answer options. Further, the probe indicated that he organised special coaching classes along with the help of co-accused Manisha Waghmare, dictating the questions with the options and the correct answers to the students. Kulkarni translated three sets of questions (135 in total) from March 31 to April 2 in 2026. CBI also revealed that Mandhare, who worked as the English-to-Marathi translator for Botany and handled back translation for Zoology, would return to her hotel room and mark the relevant passages in NCERT textbooks. The investigation also revealed that she ran special coaching classes for students at her home in Pune. The CBI said Havaldar, tasked with back-translating Physics and proofreading three question sets, would jot down brief notes on the questions. The investigation further found that the subject experts weren't searched either entering or leaving the "confidential section." The agency, which registered the case on May 12, was only able to recover CCTV footage covering 20-25 days.<h3>CBI may fine of Rs 10 crores if proven guilty</h3>Meanwhile, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS.&nbsp;According to the CBI, a conviction under Section 316(5) of the BNS can result in life imprisonment or a jail term of up to 10 years, along with a fine. The agency also noted that offences under Section 11 of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 carry a punishment of seven to 10 years' imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs 10 crore, if the charges are proven. &nbsp;

In response, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS.

The CBI investigation into the NEET (UG) paper leak has found that three subject experts used different methods to take out exam questions from the National Testing Agency (NTA) office in Delhi. The methods varied; one expert scribbled the questions on paper chits before concealing them, while the other two memorised the questions, then returned to their hotel room to pen down or mark relevant sections in NCERT textbooks. The CBI says this was possible because the three were not searched while leaving the "confidential section," a wing on the first floor of the NTA office that also had no dedicated control room for live CCTV monitoring. The three subject experts, among 13 people named in a chargesheet filed before a Delhi fast-track court on July 28, have been identified by the CBI as NTA Biology expert Manisha Mandhare, NTA Chemistry expert Pralhad Vithalrao Kulkarni, and NTA Physics expert Manisha Sanjay Havaldar. The CBI states that the three had been given plain sheets of paper inside the NTA "confidential section" for rough translation work. Also read: In response, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS. Also read: Will ordinary Indian users have to pay for UPI? Nirmala Sitharaman breaks silence on Congress' MDR fee claim CBI probe The CBI investigation found Kulkarni had used the sheets to make small chits and reportedly scribbled all 135 Chemistry questions in brief along with the answer options. Further, the probe indicated that he organised special coaching classes along with the help of co-accused Manisha Waghmare, dictating the questions with the options and the correct answers to the students. Kulkarni translated three sets of questions (135 in total) from March 31 to April 2 in 2026. CBI also revealed that Mandhare, who worked as the English-to-Marathi translator for Botany and handled back translation for Zoology, would return to her hotel room and mark the relevant passages in NCERT textbooks. The investigation also revealed that she ran special coaching classes for students at her home in Pune. The CBI said Havaldar, tasked with back-translating Physics and proofreading three question sets, would jot down brief notes on the questions. The investigation further found that the subject experts weren't searched either entering or leaving the "confidential section." The agency, which registered the case on May 12, was only able to recover CCTV footage covering 20-25 days. CBI may fine of Rs 10 crores if proven guilty Meanwhile, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS. According to the CBI, a conviction under Section 316(5) of the BNS can result in life imprisonment or a jail term of up to 10 years, along with a fine. The agency also noted that offences under Section 11 of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 carry a punishment of seven to 10 years' imprisonment and a minimum fine of Rs 10 crore, if the charges are proven.

In response, the CBI has invoked Section 316(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, against them relating to criminal breach of trust, provisions of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and other provisions of the BNS.

Chits, memory tricks and NCERT marks: How NTA experts allegedly leaked NEET questions

The fast track court set up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hear the cases related to paper leaks including the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)-UG paper leak case, has hit its first hurdle right in its maiden hearing. The first hearing ended without any substantive proceedings on Monday (Jul 27) after no lawyer appeared on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This forced the judges to adjourn the matter. The case came up before Special Judge Anu Grover Baliga.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even as the court was scheduled to hear the bail applications of two accused, Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal, no prosecutor representing the CBI was present until 10.45 am, the judge recorded the absence in the order, news agency PTI reported. Later, when the prosecutor arrived, the counsel for the accused requested that the matter be deferred, informing the court that he had to appear in another case before the Rohini district courts and could not wait further. Accepting the request, the judge adjourned the hearing to August 3. The court also directed the director of prosecution to ensure that a public prosecutor is deputed to the designated court for the next hearing.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-files-chargesheet-against-13-accused-in-neet-ug-2026-paper-leak-case-who-are-they-1785289868833">CBI files chargesheet against 13 accused in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case</a>&nbsp;Criticising the Centre, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das shared the development on X, and commented on the status of the fast track courts. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday filed a chargesheet against 13 accused in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi. The chargesheet, filed by the Economic Offences Wing of the CBI, will be placed before the special Fast Track Court constituted to hear paper leak cases on Wednesday.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cjp-protest-when-does-peaceful-protest-become-an-unlawful-assembly-1784715227774">CJP protest: When does peaceful protest become an unlawful assembly?</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260729/image-1785292791495.png"></figure><h2>How was fast-track court set up?</h2>On Jul 23, in a major step, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a late-night video announced that on Instagram that the government has decided to set up fast-track courts "to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks." PM Modi noted that he has directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard, adding that this continues a series of measures aimed at safeguarding the interests of students. After the announcement, the fast-track court began functioning from Jul 25 after the Delhi High Court notified it as a specially designated court to try offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

Delhi’s newly designated fast-track court adjourned the first NEET paper leak hearing after no CBI prosecutor appeared. The court was hearing bail pleas of Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal and fixed the matter for August 3. The CBI has also chargesheeted 13 accused in the NEET-UG 2026 case.

The fast track court set up by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to hear the cases related to paper leaks including the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)-UG paper leak case, has hit its first hurdle right in its maiden hearing. The first hearing ended without any substantive proceedings on Monday (Jul 27) after no lawyer appeared on behalf of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). This forced the judges to adjourn the matter. The case came up before Special Judge Anu Grover Baliga. Even as the court was scheduled to hear the bail applications of two accused, Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal, no prosecutor representing the CBI was present until 10.45 am, the judge recorded the absence in the order, news agency PTI reported. Later, when the prosecutor arrived, the counsel for the accused requested that the matter be deferred, informing the court that he had to appear in another case before the Rohini district courts and could not wait further. Accepting the request, the judge adjourned the hearing to August 3. The court also directed the director of prosecution to ensure that a public prosecutor is deputed to the designated court for the next hearing. Also Read: CBI files chargesheet against 13 accused in NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case Criticising the Centre, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) spokesperson Saurav Das shared the development on X, and commented on the status of the fast track courts. Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Tuesday filed a chargesheet against 13 accused in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi. The chargesheet, filed by the Economic Offences Wing of the CBI, will be placed before the special Fast Track Court constituted to hear paper leak cases on Wednesday. Also Read: CJP protest: When does peaceful protest become an unlawful assembly? How was fast-track court set up? On Jul 23, in a major step, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a late-night video announced that on Instagram that the government has decided to set up fast-track courts "to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks." PM Modi noted that he has directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard, adding that this continues a series of measures aimed at safeguarding the interests of students. After the announcement, the fast-track court began functioning from Jul 25 after the Delhi High Court notified it as a specially designated court to try offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

Delhi’s newly designated fast-track court adjourned the first NEET paper leak hearing after no CBI prosecutor appeared. The court was hearing bail pleas of Dinesh Biwal and Vikas Biwal and fixed the matter for August 3. The CBI has also chargesheeted 13 accused in the NEET-UG 2026 case.

Fast-track court set up for paper leak cases hits first pause in its maiden hearing: Here's why

The Union Cabinet on Friday gave its nod to a draft bill for ensuring stricter punishments for question paper leaks, said official sources. The Cabinet approval came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an announcement to this effect.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Education is scheduled to make a major announcement at 8 pm on reforms within the National Testing Agency (NTA).&nbsp;&nbsp;The Cabinet meeting chaired by the prime minister at the Parliament House complex approved the draft bill that lays down stricter punishments for those involved in paper leaks than the existing laws, the sources said.The proposed legislation aimed at strengthening the legal framework against exam-related fraud is likely to be tabled in Parliament next week.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-he-s-mulling-a-massive-bigger-than-ever-before-attack-on-iran-1784828958067">Trump says he’s mulling ‘a massive, bigger than ever before’ attack on Iran</a>&nbsp;The draft bill approved by the Cabinet will increase punishments and ensure swifter trials, as the government steps up efforts to restore confidence in the examination system after a series of paper leak cases. According to sources, the draft bill has provisions for 10 years‘ imprisonment, a fine of Rs 10 crore and a three-month timeline for investigation and trial.&nbsp;<h2>‘PM has said there should be no delay in the bill’: Rijiju</h2>&nbsp;Speaking to ANI on the proposed bill, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said, “We are preparing to present the bill, but after you receive the briefing on our cabinet decision, we will inform you about our timing. The Prime Minister has said that there should be no delay in the bill we are bringing regarding students. The country also wants what the Prime Minister has said, so it would not be right to resort to any tactics to obstruct it... Congress will fall if they continue to disrupt the parliamentary proceedings.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-flew-irgc-men-advisers-and-military-gear-to-yemen-to-bolster-houthis-for-red-sea-blockade-sources-1784820749435">Iran flew IRGC men, advisers and military gear to Yemen, bolstered Houthis for Red Sea blockade: Sources</a>&nbsp;“We are taking important steps for the future of the students. If the Congress party continues to create all kinds of hurdles to prevent parliamentary discussion, then they will have to face the brunt of the youth of this nation and, in fact, the entire nation,” he added.&nbsp;In a video message around midnight on Thursday, Modi announced that a bill containing provisions for strong action against paper leaks will be introduced in Parliament next week.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-us-will-hold-iran-responsible-for-houthi-attacks-on-ships-in-red-sea-1784813106940">Trump says US will hold Iran responsible for Houthi attacks on ships in Red Sea</a>&nbsp;Sources said that the bill contains amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, the anti-paper leak law enacted in 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;The announcement came amid the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in Delhi demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accountability for irregularities in exams, reforms in the education system, and Rs 1 crore compensation to families of students who committed suicide after the NEET-UG paper leak in May.

The draft bill will increase punishments and ensure swifter trials, as the government steps up efforts to restore confidence in the examination system after several paper leak cases. According to sources, the draft bill has provisions for 10 years‘ imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 crore.

The Union Cabinet on Friday gave its nod to a draft bill for ensuring stricter punishments for question paper leaks, said official sources. The Cabinet approval came hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi made an announcement to this effect. Meanwhile, the Union Ministry of Education is scheduled to make a major announcement at 8 pm on reforms within the National Testing Agency (NTA). The Cabinet meeting chaired by the prime minister at the Parliament House complex approved the draft bill that lays down stricter punishments for those involved in paper leaks than the existing laws, the sources said. The proposed legislation aimed at strengthening the legal framework against exam-related fraud is likely to be tabled in Parliament next week. Also Read: Trump says he’s mulling ‘a massive, bigger than ever before’ attack on Iran The draft bill approved by the Cabinet will increase punishments and ensure swifter trials, as the government steps up efforts to restore confidence in the examination system after a series of paper leak cases. According to sources, the draft bill has provisions for 10 years‘ imprisonment, a fine of Rs 10 crore and a three-month timeline for investigation and trial. ‘PM has said there should be no delay in the bill’: Rijiju Speaking to ANI on the proposed bill, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said, “We are preparing to present the bill, but after you receive the briefing on our cabinet decision, we will inform you about our timing. The Prime Minister has said that there should be no delay in the bill we are bringing regarding students. The country also wants what the Prime Minister has said, so it would not be right to resort to any tactics to obstruct it... Congress will fall if they continue to disrupt the parliamentary proceedings.” Also Read: Iran flew IRGC men, advisers and military gear to Yemen, bolstered Houthis for Red Sea blockade: Sources “We are taking important steps for the future of the students. If the Congress party continues to create all kinds of hurdles to prevent parliamentary discussion, then they will have to face the brunt of the youth of this nation and, in fact, the entire nation,” he added. In a video message around midnight on Thursday, Modi announced that a bill containing provisions for strong action against paper leaks will be introduced in Parliament next week. Also Read: Trump says US will hold Iran responsible for Houthi attacks on ships in Red Sea Sources said that the bill contains amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, the anti-paper leak law enacted in 2024. The announcement came amid the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in Delhi demanding the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, accountability for irregularities in exams, reforms in the education system, and Rs 1 crore compensation to families of students who committed suicide after the NEET-UG paper leak in May.

The draft bill will increase punishments and ensure swifter trials, as the government steps up efforts to restore confidence in the examination system after several paper leak cases. According to sources, the draft bill has provisions for 10 years‘ imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 crore.

Union Cabinet approves draft bill for stricter punishments, faster trials for paper leaks

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Jul 23) launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the NEET-UG paper leak. Despite the PM’s assurance, Gandhi refused to back down against the Centre over the issue as thousands of students protest across the nation. The Congress leader also accused PM Modi of harming the future of the youth of the country and claimed that he encouraged the “destruction” of the education system.“You are the one who has harmed the future of our youth the most,” Gandhi wrote in a post on X. “You allowed and encouraged the total capture and destruction of our education system - and protected every person responsible for it.”Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-democratic-conduct-nadda-slams-opposition-over-neet-protest-says-centre-ready-to-talk-as-lok-sabha-adjourns-1784710103629">‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns</a>He also listed three demands of the students: “1. Sack Dharmendra Pradhan; 2. Apologise to the students; 3. Take action against those who assaulted them.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">You are the one who has harmed the future of our youth the most. You allowed and encouraged the total capture and destruction of our education system - and protected every person responsible for it. The students’ demands are clear: 1. Sack Dharmendra Pradhan. 2. Apologise to… <a href="https://t.co/0MK4wPMNiK">https://t.co/0MK4wPMNiK</a>&mdash; Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/2080145197745553599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>PM Modi assures action against paper leaks</h2>This comes after PM Modi earlier assured “stringent punishment” for those involved in the paper leaks. He said that the government has set up fast-track courts and directed officials to take necessary steps.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-rajya-sabha-adjourned-till-12-as-opposition-mps-protest-1784700040944">Also read | ‘Govt is ready to discuss NEET’: Rijiju says as Lok Sabha adjourned</a>“Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth!” PM Modi wrote on X.He added, “We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. This continues our series of steps for safeguarding the interests of students.”“Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared,” the prime minister said.On May 12, the National Testing Agency (NTA) scrapped the May 3 National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), or NEET-UG, following allegations that the question paper had been leaked. A fresh examination was subsequently conducted on June 21. The incident has faced backlash from students, educationalists, and leaders. So far, the CBI has arrested 13 individuals in the case, all of whom are in judicial custody.Watch | PM Modi announces Fast Track Courts for NEET Paper Leak cases amid Jantar Mantar Protests &amp; clashes<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-announces-fast-track-courts-for-neet-paper-leak-cases-amid-jantar-mantar-protests-clashes-1784786232399/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-announces-fast-track-courts-for-neet-paper-leak-cases-amid-jantar-mantar-protests-clashes-1784786232399/embed</a> &nbsp;

Rahul Gandhi attacked PM Modi over the NEET-UG paper leak, accusing the government of damaging students’ futures and demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s removal, apology, and action against attackers.

Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday (Jul 23) launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the NEET-UG paper leak. Despite the PM’s assurance, Gandhi refused to back down against the Centre over the issue as thousands of students protest across the nation. The Congress leader also accused PM Modi of harming the future of the youth of the country and claimed that he encouraged the “destruction” of the education system. “You are the one who has harmed the future of our youth the most,” Gandhi wrote in a post on X. “You allowed and encouraged the total capture and destruction of our education system - and protected every person responsible for it.” Also read | ‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns He also listed three demands of the students: “1. Sack Dharmendra Pradhan; 2. Apologise to the students; 3. Take action against those who assaulted them.”

Rahul Gandhi attacked PM Modi over the NEET-UG paper leak, accusing the government of damaging students’ futures and demanding Dharmendra Pradhan’s removal, apology, and action against attackers.

‘You harmed future of youth’: Rahul Gandhi attacks PM Modi, lists THESE 3 student demands

Union Minister and senior BJP leader JP Nadda on Wednesday appealed against politicising the ongoing protests over the paper leak issue and said students and their concerns should not be used for political gain.Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Nadda said, “Students demand action on the paper leak… I request that we should not politicise the issue. We should not take political mileage from this issue.”Nadda then targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and reminded him of paper leak incidents that took place during the Congress era and in Congress-ruled states across the country.&nbsp;Nadda said, “Leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi gave a presentation in the Indian Parliament today evening, and in that presentation, he claimed there were approximately 150 paper leaks. This is a matter of investigation, and the government, being a responsible government, will undoubtedly investigate and present the truth to the public and the nation.”&nbsp;<h2>Nadda recalls multiple paper leak incidents</h2>&nbsp;Nadda, a former BJP president, then referred to the multiple paper leak incidents where the Congress party is running either its own government or with its alliance partners in a coalition.Nadda referred to paper leaks in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Punjab, Kerala, and Karnataka and said there were more such instances. He then questioned Rahul on why he was being ‘selective’ in raising paper leak incidents and accused him of trying to extract political mileage out of the issue.&nbsp;<h2>‘Serious problem needs serious debate’&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Addressing the media on the students’ protest, Nadda said that the future of students was at stake, and hence the issue deserves a serious debate in parliament. He said all political parties should come together to find a solution instead of indulging in a blame game.&nbsp;“The issues raised by the students, particularly the matter of paper leaks, are genuine concerns. My first appeal is that we should not politicise this issue or seek political gains from it. This is a serious problem, and it deserves a thorough and sincere discussion,” he said.&nbsp;“We should focus on redressal," Nadda said, adding that the government did not want any injustice to students.Nadda further said that the students should get justice and asserted that the government was treating the matter with utmost seriousness.&nbsp;<h2>Sonam Wangchuk shares video message from hospital&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a hunger strike over the paper leak issue, shared a video message on X and reiterated the precondition for ending his indefinite fast over the NEET paper leak. He said that he will end his fast only when the government gives an assurance that protesters will not face any punitive legal action.

Union Minister JP Nadda, a former BJP president, referred to paper leaks in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Punjab, Kerala, and Karnataka and said there were more such instances.

Union Minister and senior BJP leader JP Nadda on Wednesday appealed against politicising the ongoing protests over the paper leak issue and said students and their concerns should not be used for political gain. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Nadda said, “Students demand action on the paper leak… I request that we should not politicise the issue. We should not take political mileage from this issue.” Nadda then targeted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and reminded him of paper leak incidents that took place during the Congress era and in Congress-ruled states across the country. Nadda said, “Leader of the opposition Rahul Gandhi gave a presentation in the Indian Parliament today evening, and in that presentation, he claimed there were approximately 150 paper leaks. This is a matter of investigation, and the government, being a responsible government, will undoubtedly investigate and present the truth to the public and the nation.” Nadda recalls multiple paper leak incidents Nadda, a former BJP president, then referred to the multiple paper leak incidents where the Congress party is running either its own government or with its alliance partners in a coalition. Nadda referred to paper leaks in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Punjab, Kerala, and Karnataka and said there were more such instances. He then questioned Rahul on why he was being ‘selective’ in raising paper leak incidents and accused him of trying to extract political mileage out of the issue. ‘Serious problem needs serious debate’ Addressing the media on the students’ protest, Nadda said that the future of students was at stake, and hence the issue deserves a serious debate in parliament. He said all political parties should come together to find a solution instead of indulging in a blame game. “The issues raised by the students, particularly the matter of paper leaks, are genuine concerns. My first appeal is that we should not politicise this issue or seek political gains from it. This is a serious problem, and it deserves a thorough and sincere discussion,” he said. “We should focus on redressal," Nadda said, adding that the government did not want any injustice to students. Nadda further said that the students should get justice and asserted that the government was treating the matter with utmost seriousness. Sonam Wangchuk shares video message from hospital Meanwhile, activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is on a hunger strike over the paper leak issue, shared a video message on X and reiterated the precondition for ending his indefinite fast over the NEET paper leak. He said that he will end his fast only when the government gives an assurance that protesters will not face any punitive legal action.

Union Minister JP Nadda, a former BJP president, referred to paper leaks in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Punjab, Kerala, and Karnataka and said there were more such instances.

‘Don’t politicise students’ protest’: JP Nadda reminds Rahul of paper leaks in oppn-ruled states

Mumbai: A political party in India’s western state of Maharashtra has called for a statewide shutdown, or bandh, on Thursday (July 23), raising concerns about possible disruptions to transport, businesses and daily life.&nbsp;The call comes amid growing protests over the alleged irregularities in India’s NEET medical entrance examination and police action against demonstrators in New Delhi.&nbsp;<h2>Who has called the bandh?</h2>&nbsp;The bandh has been announced by the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), a regional political party led by Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of India’s Constitution architect B.R. Ambedkar.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/oppn-using-students-as-political-tools-creating-manufactured-sense-of-anger-rajnath-singh-1784716925229">‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh</a>&nbsp;The party has urged opposition groups, student organisations, labour unions and the public to participate in what it describes as a peaceful protest across Maharashtra.&nbsp;<h2>Why is the protest taking place?</h2>&nbsp;According to the VBA, the bandh is being organised to protest against the detention of students, activists and opposition leaders during demonstrations in Delhi over the NEET paper leak controversy.&nbsp;The party says the protest is also intended to show solidarity with students demanding accountability and greater transparency in the examination process.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-democratic-conduct-nadda-slams-opposition-over-neet-protest-says-centre-ready-to-talk-as-lok-sabha-adjourns-1784710103629">‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns</a><h2>Is it an official shutdown?</h2>&nbsp;No. The Maharashtra government has not declared an official public holiday, and there has been no order directing schools, colleges, government offices, or businesses to close.&nbsp;The bandh is a political call rather than a state-imposed shutdown.&nbsp;<h2>Will transport be affected?</h2>&nbsp;Authorities have not announced any suspension of public transport.&nbsp;Mumbai’s suburban railway network, Metro services, state-run buses and airports are expected to function as usual. However, commuters could face traffic congestion, road blockades or delays if protesters gather in large numbers.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonam-wangchuk-puts-condition-for-ending-fast-seeks-assurance-of-no-punitive-action-against-protesters-1784724401578">Sonam Wangchuk puts condition for ending fast, seeks assurance of no punitive action against protesters</a>&nbsp;Police are expected to deploy additional personnel across major cities, including Mumbai, Pune and Nashik, to maintain law and order.&nbsp;<h2>What should people expect?</h2>&nbsp;While essential services are expected to remain operational, some markets, shops and commercial establishments may close voluntarily in areas where the bandh receives significant support.&nbsp;Residents have been advised to check local traffic updates before travelling and follow official advisories issued by police and district authorities.&nbsp;Bandhs are a common form of political protest in India. Although they are not legally enforceable, they can cause disruptions depending on the level of public participation and support from local organisations.

The Maharashtra bandh has been called by Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), a political party led by Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of India’s Constitution architect B.R. Ambedkar. The party has urged opposition groups, students, labour unions, and the public to participate in peaceful protest.

Mumbai: A political party in India’s western state of Maharashtra has called for a statewide shutdown, or bandh, on Thursday (July 23), raising concerns about possible disruptions to transport, businesses and daily life. The call comes amid growing protests over the alleged irregularities in India’s NEET medical entrance examination and police action against demonstrators in New Delhi. Who has called the bandh? The bandh has been announced by the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), a regional political party led by Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of India’s Constitution architect B.R. Ambedkar. Also Read: ‘Oppn using students as political tools, creating ‘manufactured sense of anger’: Rajnath Singh The party has urged opposition groups, student organisations, labour unions and the public to participate in what it describes as a peaceful protest across Maharashtra. Why is the protest taking place? According to the VBA, the bandh is being organised to protest against the detention of students, activists and opposition leaders during demonstrations in Delhi over the NEET paper leak controversy. The party says the protest is also intended to show solidarity with students demanding accountability and greater transparency in the examination process. Also Read: ‘Anti-democratic conduct’: Nadda slams Opposition over NEET protest, says ‘Centre ready to talk’ as Lok Sabha adjourns Is it an official shutdown? No. The Maharashtra government has not declared an official public holiday, and there has been no order directing schools, colleges, government offices, or businesses to close. The bandh is a political call rather than a state-imposed shutdown. Will transport be affected? Authorities have not announced any suspension of public transport. Mumbai’s suburban railway network, Metro services, state-run buses and airports are expected to function as usual. However, commuters could face traffic congestion, road blockades or delays if protesters gather in large numbers. Also Read: Sonam Wangchuk puts condition for ending fast, seeks assurance of no punitive action against protesters Police are expected to deploy additional personnel across major cities, including Mumbai, Pune and Nashik, to maintain law and order. What should people expect? While essential services are expected to remain operational, some markets, shops and commercial establishments may close voluntarily in areas where the bandh receives significant support. Residents have been advised to check local traffic updates before travelling and follow official advisories issued by police and district authorities. Bandhs are a common form of political protest in India. Although they are not legally enforceable, they can cause disruptions depending on the level of public participation and support from local organisations.

The Maharashtra bandh has been called by Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA), a political party led by Prakash Ambedkar, the grandson of India’s Constitution architect B.R. Ambedkar. The party has urged opposition groups, students, labour unions, and the public to participate in peaceful protest.

Maharashtra Bandh call on July 23: What all you need to know

The right to peaceful protest plays a significant role in Indian democracy, serving as a vital mechanism for citizens to express dissent and hold institutions accountable without violence. However, under the legal framework of India, the right to demonstrate is not unfettered and must be exercised within specific constitutional bounds. The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. The members of CJP formed a group and started their demonstration at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The development unfolded after the NEET UG paper was leaked after the examination was held in May this year. Since then, several students and their families have demanded greater accountability from the government, as at least 21 students have died by suicide after the paper leak. The re-test was conducted late last month.<h3>Is protesting a fundamental right in India?</h3>The Constitution of India does not explicitly mention a standalone "Right to Protest." Still, the Supreme Court has repeatedly held that it is an implicit Fundamental Right derived from Article 19: Article 19(1)(a) guarantees the Freedom of Speech and Expression, enabling citizens to publicly express dissent and communicate grievances. And Article 19(1)(b) guarantees the right to Assemble Peaceably and Without Arms, laying the legal foundation for rallies and public meetings.&nbsp;This right is not absolute. Under Article 19(2) and Article 19(3), the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, public order, decency, or morality and preventing incitement to an offence or causing public nuisance. However, protesters do not have the right to block public thoroughfares indefinitely or cause public nuisance. In response, authorities can enforce regulatory measures (like Section 144) to prevent breaches of peace or imminent danger.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-amit-shah-must-resign-says-rahul-gandhi-holds-protest-outside-pm-s-residence-along-with-several-congress-leaders-1784631100893">Modi, Amit Shah must resign, says Rahul Gandhi, holds protest outside PM's residence along with several Congress leaders</a><h3>Distinction between peaceful protest and Civil Disobedience</h3><h3>Peaceful Protest</h3>In a peaceful protest, people are protected under the Constitutional Right Article 19, which operates within the boundaries of the law (e.g., getting police permissions, gathering at designated spots, shouting slogans peacefully). In this development, the State/Police are constitutionally bound to facilitate and protect the gathering, subject to public order safety.<h3>Civil Disobedience</h3>This development involves the deliberate and intentional breaking of specific laws or orders (e.g., defying curfew, refusing taxes, blocking railways) as a form of moral resistance. It involves a conscientious breach of a rule to highlight an injustice, with the protester accepting the legal consequences.<h3>Why is police permission required?&nbsp;</h3>In the landmark Himat Lal K. Shah v. Commissioner of Police (1973) case, the Supreme Court ruled that requiring prior police permission to hold public meetings on public streets does not abridge the fundamental right of assembly. Instead, it acts as a regulatory measure: To prevent total gridlock, manage crowd density, and ensure emergency services (ambulances, fire engines) remain unaffected, the next step is to assess threat perception and prevent clashes between rival political or social groups.&nbsp;Organisers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or formal permit detailing the rally route, duration, and expected headcount from the relevant District Magistrate (DM) or Commissioner of Police.<h3>Can police detain protesters?</h3>Yes, Indian police can legally detain peaceful protesters under specific circumstances, even though the right to assemble peacefully is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Preventive Detention: Under criminal procedure codes, police officers can detain individuals if there is a credible apprehension that they might commit a cognisable offence or disrupt public peace.&nbsp;Unlawful Assembly: If a protest proceeds without valid permissions or continues after a dispersal order, participants can be detained for joining or continuing in an unlawful assembly.&nbsp;Procedural Guarantees: Any detained protester retains fundamental protections under Article 22, including the right to know the grounds of arrest, consult a legal practitioner, and be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours.<h3>Under what circumstances can prohibitory orders be imposed?</h3>Prohibitory orders restrict public assembly and are primarily issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) (or corresponding provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 / BNSS).&nbsp;Circumstances for imposition include:&nbsp;A District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or authorised Executive Magistrate can issue prohibitory orders when there is: An immediate, urgent threat of nuisance or apprehended danger and a risk to human life, health, or safety.<h3>Is there a legal right to protest specifically at Jantar Mantar?</h3>Yes, but subject to strict executive regulations. Historically, Jantar Mantar in New Delhi became a core designated protest zone. However, the law does not guarantee the right to protest at any location or without permission. To protest at any location in India, organisers must typically submit a formal application or letter to the local Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) several days in advance detailing the purpose, expected headcount, and duration of the demonstration.&nbsp;In 2017, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a total ban on all protests there due to severe noise pollution and disturbance to nearby residents. &nbsp;

The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. 

The right to peaceful protest plays a significant role in Indian democracy, serving as a vital mechanism for citizens to express dissent and hold institutions accountable without violence. However, under the legal framework of India, the right to demonstrate is not unfettered and must be exercised within specific constitutional bounds. The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media. The members of CJP formed a group and started their demonstration at New Delhi's Jantar Mantar demanding the resignation of the Union Education Minister. The development unfolded after the NEET UG paper was leaked after the examination was held in May this year. Since then, several students and their families have demanded greater accountability from the government, as at least 21 students have died by suicide after the paper leak. The re-test was conducted late last month. Is protesting a fundamental right in India? The Constitution of India does not explicitly mention a standalone "Right to Protest." Still, the Supreme Court has repeatedly held that it is an implicit Fundamental Right derived from Article 19: Article 19(1)(a) guarantees the Freedom of Speech and Expression, enabling citizens to publicly express dissent and communicate grievances. And Article 19(1)(b) guarantees the right to Assemble Peaceably and Without Arms, laying the legal foundation for rallies and public meetings. This right is not absolute. Under Article 19(2) and Article 19(3), the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, public order, decency, or morality and preventing incitement to an offence or causing public nuisance. However, protesters do not have the right to block public thoroughfares indefinitely or cause public nuisance. In response, authorities can enforce regulatory measures (like Section 144) to prevent breaches of peace or imminent danger. Also read: Modi, Amit Shah must resign, says Rahul Gandhi, holds protest outside PM's residence along with several Congress leaders Distinction between peaceful protest and Civil Disobedience Peaceful Protest In a peaceful protest, people are protected under the Constitutional Right Article 19, which operates within the boundaries of the law (e.g., getting police permissions, gathering at designated spots, shouting slogans peacefully). In this development, the State/Police are constitutionally bound to facilitate and protect the gathering, subject to public order safety. Civil Disobedience This development involves the deliberate and intentional breaking of specific laws or orders (e.g., defying curfew, refusing taxes, blocking railways) as a form of moral resistance. It involves a conscientious breach of a rule to highlight an injustice, with the protester accepting the legal consequences. Why is police permission required? In the landmark Himat Lal K. Shah v. Commissioner of Police (1973) case, the Supreme Court ruled that requiring prior police permission to hold public meetings on public streets does not abridge the fundamental right of assembly. Instead, it acts as a regulatory measure: To prevent total gridlock, manage crowd density, and ensure emergency services (ambulances, fire engines) remain unaffected, the next step is to assess threat perception and prevent clashes between rival political or social groups. Organisers must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or formal permit detailing the rally route, duration, and expected headcount from the relevant District Magistrate (DM) or Commissioner of Police. Can police detain protesters? Yes, Indian police can legally detain peaceful protesters under specific circumstances, even though the right to assemble peacefully is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution. Preventive Detention: Under criminal procedure codes, police officers can detain individuals if there is a credible apprehension that they might commit a cognisable offence or disrupt public peace. Unlawful Assembly: If a protest proceeds without valid permissions or continues after a dispersal order, participants can be detained for joining or continuing in an unlawful assembly. Procedural Guarantees: Any detained protester retains fundamental protections under Article 22, including the right to know the grounds of arrest, consult a legal practitioner, and be produced before a magistrate within 24 hours. Under what circumstances can prohibitory orders be imposed? Prohibitory orders restrict public assembly and are primarily issued under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) (or corresponding provisions under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 / BNSS). Circumstances for imposition include: A District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or authorised Executive Magistrate can issue prohibitory orders when there is: An immediate, urgent threat of nuisance or apprehended danger and a risk to human life, health, or safety. Is there a legal right to protest specifically at Jantar Mantar? Yes, but subject to strict executive regulations. Historically, Jantar Mantar in New Delhi became a core designated protest zone. However, the law does not guarantee the right to protest at any location or without permission. To protest at any location in India, organisers must typically submit a formal application or letter to the local Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) several days in advance detailing the purpose, expected headcount, and duration of the demonstration. In 2017, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) ordered a total ban on all protests there due to severe noise pollution and disturbance to nearby residents.

The topic related to protest came to trend on the internet after a massive protest erupted at Jantar Mantar by an outfit, Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which was born as a satirical platform on social media.&nbsp;

Is protesting fundamental right in India? Decoding all rights and restrictions as per the law: EXPLAINED

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Is protesting fundamental right in India? Decoding all rights and restrictions