CBI Uncovers NEET-UG 2026 Exam Scandal in Major Conspiracy Probe

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, presenting evidence of a broader conspiracy involving officials of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and other departments. The CBI informed a special court that it is currently mapping the digital and financial networks connected to the scandal.

On Thursday, a Special CBI Court granted permission to remand five individuals—Mangilal Biwal, Vikas Biwal, Dinesh Biwal, Yash Yadav, and Shubham Khairnar—into seven days of CBI custody. The agency argued that custodial interrogation was necessary to uncover the involvement of NTA officials in the leak.

A sequence of transactions and communications revealed that Shubham Khairnar procured the leaked paper on April 28, 2026, from a contact in Pune, allegedly sourced through an NTA affiliate. The paper was intended for sale and distribution for profit, with tests confirming the use of WhatsApp and Telegram for dissemination.

According to the CBI, Shubham established a deal with Yash Yadav to distribute the leaked papers, valued at Rs 15 lakh. Despite efforts to erase evidence from his devices, forensic analysis is underway following the seizure of Shubham's mobile phone.

The investigation noted that Yash Yadav received the exam papers for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology on April 29, 2026, via Telegram, with additional transfers involving Mangilal Khatik. Yadav reportedly shared the papers with Khatik for Rs 10 lakh. Physical copies were then circulated further among Mangilal's family members.

The CBI has also seized other devices linked to the suspects, revealing significant evidence of monetary exchanges and communications. Continued forensic examinations and further statements, including those from Amit Kumar Meena and Satyanarayan Chaudhary, are expected to deepen insights into the case.

Officials emphasized the need for custody to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the digital artifacts and monetary transactions integral to the investigation of the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak affair.

(With inputs from agencies.)