NEET UG 2026 Leak Controversy: CBI Probe Begins After Chemistry Paper Match Exposed

NEET UG 2026 Paper Leak: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has reportedly identified a major breach in the NEET UG 2026 examination after discovering that all Chemistry questions in a circulated “guess paper” matched the actual NEET exam paper. The finding triggered an internal investigation that eventually led the agency to scrutinise the officials involved in preparing and translating the Chemistry section of the exam.

Based on its preliminary inquiry, the NTA has shared the names of all Chemistry paper setters and translators with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for further investigation.

According to sources, the NTA received an email from a whistleblower based in Sikar on May 7, four days after the nationwide NEET examination held on May 3. The whistleblower allegedly informed the agency about a possible paper leak and later submitted a PDF copy of the leaked question paper.

After comparing the document with the actual NEET question paper, officials found that complete match in the Chemistry section. Investigators also observed that several Biology questions had similarities with the leaked material.

NTA Shares List of Chemistry Experts with CBI

Sources familiar with the matter stated that the NTA has handed over the names of around 26 to 27 individuals associated with the Chemistry paper to the CBI. Among them, nearly 24 are translators, while the remaining members were question setters for Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry.

Investigators suspect that some of these individuals may have participated in previous years’ examination processes as well.

How the Translation System Works

Since NEET is conducted in multiple languages, the NTA appoints translators for Physics, Chemistry, and Biology papers. Each subject has two translators for every language pair. One translator translates a paper from English into a regional language, while a second translator translates it back into English to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Officials noted that the entire system functions largely on trust and confidentiality. Paper setters and translators are selected months in advance and are required to sign confidentiality agreements before beginning their work.

NTA Reviews Security Measures

Following the leak controversy, the NTA is now reconsidering its existing system for selecting paper setters and translators. Sources indicated that the agency may introduce stricter background verification and third-party due diligence procedures in future examinations.

For the NEET retest scheduled on June 21, the NTA has reportedly replaced all question setters and translators not only for Chemistry but also for Physics and Biology.

Officials stated that the agency is also revising its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to strengthen examination security. However, the short timeline before the upcoming retest has created additional pressure on the authorities.

Arrest of Former Lecturer

In a significant development in investigation, the CBI recently arrested retired Pune lecturer PV Kulkarni. He was reportedly involved in both setting Chemistry questions and translating the paper into Marathi.

Investigators are examining whether any insider involvement contributed to the alleged leak of confidential examination material.

Existing Security Protocols Under Review

To comply with the recommendations of the committee established to conduct a review of the current security protocols for question papers, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has ensured that security protocols are in place to protect all question papers. As part of these procedures, setter staff are required to use secure workstations, and will be provided with secure internet access through NTA to complete their work. Additionally, the setter staff is prohibited from using both cell phones and laptop computers while in the workplace.

Despite these safeguards, the latest controversy has raised concerns about loopholes within the system.

NTA Expands Institutional Strength

NTA has strengthened their administrative and technological capacity as they continue investigations. Recently, four new senior staff members have been appointed with two in Joint Secretary positions and two in Joint Director positions. 

The NTA is also seeking candidates for several professional leadership positions, including a Chief Technology Officer (CTO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and General Manager of Universal Human Resources.

The CTO will oversee the entire digital examination ecosystem including responsible agencies for registration systems, secure management of question papers, evaluation processes, results processing and overall security of the digital infrastructure.

Education Minister Reviews Retest Preparations

Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan held a review meeting on the preparation for NEET Retesting on 21 June.

The Minister stated that all officials are to establish close communication with the District Magistrate and Superintendent of Police of each state to ensure adherence to strict monitoring and smooth implementation of the upcoming NEET Examination.