The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has revealed that the NEET UG 2026 question paper and answer key were accessed on April 27, 2026 . The national medical entrance exam was held on May 3, 2026. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the alleged leak.
Paper Leak Details Emerge
According to the CBI, accused individuals, including NTA official Manisha Waghmare and PV Kulkarni, obtained access to the NEET UG 2026 question papers and answer keys on April 27, 2026. These materials were circulated among several people for financial gain. The accused reportedly destroyed the leaked papers and answer keys on May 3, 2026, the same day the exam was conducted.
Nexus and Arrests
PV Kulkarni, identified as a prime accused, was also involved in setting the question paper for the exam. Manisha Waghmare, an NTA official, allegedly provided access to the papers. These were then distributed further. One recipient was Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, a Senior Botany Teacher from Pune and a member of the paper-setting panel for Botany.
The CBI stated that the accused conducted special sessions and classes for students. These sessions discussed the leaked questions. Students paid money to attend these classes.
Ongoing Investigation
Manisha Gurunath Mandhare was arrested in Delhi after CBI interrogation. She was produced before a CBI Judge at the Rouse Avenue court. The CBI indicated that more arrests are anticipated in the ongoing investigation.
