NEET paper leak: CBI charge-sheets 3 NTA experts; may face life sentence, fine of Rs 10 crore

NEW DELHI: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has charge-sheeted three National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts involved in setting the NEET UG 2026 examination paper in connection with the alleged paper leak case.

The accused have been identified as Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, Prahalad Kulkarni and Manisha Sanjay Havaldar. The CBI has invoked provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, and the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

According to the CBI, the three subject experts allegedly removed confidential NTA question material from official custody and were involved in leaking examination questions and sharing them with candidates before the examination.

Mandhare has been accused of receiving leaked physics questions, retaining confidential examination material and allegedly misappropriating question papers for monetary gain. The agency has also alleged that she colluded with others and provided leaked material and unauthorised tutoring to candidates.

Kulkarni has been accused of removing confidential question material, allegedly misappropriating examination papers for monetary gain and leaking questions in collusion with others. The CBI also alleges that he destroyed original question notes after becoming aware of the offence and facilitated unauthorised tutoring.

Havaldar has similarly been accused of removing confidential NTA question material, misappropriating question papers for monetary benefit and leaking questions to candidates. The CBI also alleges that she destroyed original question notes after becoming aware of the offence and was involved in collusion and unauthorised tutoring.

The agency has also alleged that all three participated in organised criminal activity linked to the alleged leakage of the NEET UG 2026 question paper. (ANI)

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