IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti, a key member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's six-member Exam Reform Task Force, has made a significant claim regarding the NEET 2026 paper leak, stating the breach occurred "before the paper left NTA." This assertion points to a fundamental failure at the "root of trust" within the examination process itself, specifically implicating question paper setters and the human chain involved.
The 'Root of Trust' Compromised
Speaking to NDTV, Kamakoti clarified that the NEET 2026 paper leak did not happen during the printing, packing, transport, or distribution phases. Instead, the compromise took place much earlier. He referenced CBI findings to underscore that the integrity of the examination was breached at its very origin, before the question papers were even disseminated from the National Testing Agency (NTA) premises.
"It happened before the paper left NTA," Kamakoti stated, highlighting a critical lapse among those responsible for setting the question papers and the personnel surrounding them.
Why NEET Remains Vulnerable
According to Kamakoti, NEET's susceptibility to leaks stems from a failure to fully implement lessons from previous controversies, particularly the 2024 incident, and the recommendations of the Ranganathan Committee. While some of the committee's more than 250 recommendations were adopted, critical gaps persisted. He warned that without enforcing comprehensive safeguards across the entire examination chain—from initial paper setting to final delivery—national examinations will continue to face security risks.
JEE's Model for Security
In contrast to NEET, the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) has largely avoided similar breaches, despite the massive increase in aspirants from 5,000 in 1985 to nearly 15 lakh today. Kamakoti attributes JEE's robust security to a combination of advanced technology and stringent operational protocols. These include:
- Transition from pen-paper tests to computer-based testing (CBT).
- Utilisation of optical sensor, sheet recognition, and image processing technology.
- Standard measures like identity verification, biometric authentication, and handheld metal detectors to prevent electronic devices in exam centers.
These multi-layered security measures have significantly bolstered the integrity of the JEE process.
Future Reforms: Embracing Computer-Based Tests
The Exam Reform Task Force is actively considering a shift from single-session, OMR-based examinations to multi-session computer-based tests (CBT). Kamakoti believes such a system could:
- Reduce the impact of any single paper leak by diversifying test versions.
- Improve transparency and auditability of the examination process.
- Allow for scaling to accommodate two or three large sessions, increasing flexibility and security.
This strategic transition aims to fortify the security of national entrance examinations and restore public trust in their integrity.