The Central Bureau of Investigation announced on Friday that it has pinpointed the alleged mastermind behind the NEET-UG 2026 exam paper leak. Authorities claim P.V. Kulkarni, a chemistry lecturer involved in the National Testing Agency’s examination process, accessed and distributed question papers to students before the May 3 test.
Details of the Alleged Leak
Investigators state that Kulkarni, assisted by Manisha Waghmare—who was arrested on May 14—organized exclusive coaching sessions at his Pune home during the last week of April. He reportedly dictated exam questions, multiple-choice options, and correct answers, which students transcribed into notebooks. These notes precisely matched the actual NEET-UG 2026 paper.
Arrests Across Multiple Cities
So far, seven individuals face arrest in connection with the scandal, apprehended in Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, and Ahilyanagar. Five suspects have appeared in court and received seven-day police custody for intensive questioning. The two most recently detained on Thursday will appear in a Pune court for transit remand before transfer to Delhi for further investigation.
