The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has unveiled the methods allegedly employed by three subject experts from the National Testing Agency (NTA) to leak questions from the NEET-UG examination. According to a chargesheet filed by the CBI on July 28, these experts exploited security loopholes at the NTA's confidential section in Delhi, enabling them to disseminate exam material for private coaching purposes.
How the Leak Occurred
The investigation identified three key figures: Manisha Mandhare (Biology expert), Pralhad Vithalrao Kulkarni (Chemistry expert), and Manisha Sanjay Havaldar (Physics expert). Their alleged tactics varied:
- Pralhad Vithalrao Kulkarni, responsible for Chemistry back translation, reportedly used plain paper sheets provided for rough work to create small chits. On these, he allegedly transcribed all 135 Chemistry questions along with their answer options. He subsequently dictated these questions and answers to students during special coaching classes, working with co-accused Manisha Waghmare.
- Manisha Mandhare, involved in Botany and Zoology translation, allegedly memorized questions and later marked relevant paragraphs in NCERT textbooks upon returning to her hotel room. She then conducted coaching sessions for students at her residence in Pune.
- Manisha Sanjay Havaldar, assigned Physics back translation and proof-reading, is accused of briefly noting down questions for later use.
Security Lapses Exposed
A critical finding from the CBI probe highlighted significant security failures at the NTA office. The subject experts were reportedly not frisked upon entering or exiting the confidential section, which is located on the first floor. Furthermore, the agency noted the absence of a dedicated live-feed monitoring control room for CCTV cameras in that wing, with footage available for only 20 to 25 days.
Government Response and Reforms
In response to the widespread NEET-UG paper leak controversy, the Centre has informed the Supreme Court of its plans for a comprehensive overhaul of the examination process. This includes considering a two-stage exam format, similar to JEE, to enhance security and prevent future incidents of malpractice. The Ministry of Education has affirmed its commitment to creating a robust, institutionalized system that strengthens examination security and builds institutional memory.
Additionally, Parliament has fortified the legal framework against examination fraud with the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Act, 2026. This legislation builds on a 2024 law, criminalizing activities such as question paper leaks, impersonation, and tampering with computer systems.