NEET Paper Leak – CBI Claims Digital Trail Linked Accused to Alleged Examination Conspiracy
NEET Paper Leak – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has alleged that investigators uncovered a detailed digital communication network that was allegedly used to circulate confidential NEET-UG 2026 examination papers before the test, with electronic records forming a key part of the agency’s case.
The Central Bureau of Investigation on Friday informed a Special CBI Court at Rouse Avenue that its investigation into the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak has revealed an organised digital network through which confidential examination material was allegedly shared before the entrance examination. According to the chargesheet, investigators traced electronic communications exchanged through platforms such as WhatsApp, Telegram and digital files, which the agency believes were used to move sensitive question papers among members of the alleged conspiracy.
Forensic analysis formed the backbone of the investigation
According to the chargesheet, forensic experts examined multiple seized mobile phones and other electronic devices during the investigation. The agency stated that these examinations led to the recovery of chat records, PDF documents, photographs and other digital files that allegedly helped investigators reconstruct how the confidential examination material moved through different individuals before reaching selected candidates.
The CBI has claimed that the recovered electronic evidence enabled investigators to establish a sequence beginning with individuals associated with question paper preparation and continuing through intermediaries before the alleged leaked material reached aspirants.
Mobile phone data linked to accused individuals
The investigation states that forensic examination of the mobile phone allegedly used by accused Yash Yadav revealed PDF copies said to contain the leaked NEET-UG 2026 question paper. Investigators also referred to Telegram conversations with a contact saved as “AP Broker,” whom the agency has identified as co-accused Shubham Madhukar Khairnar during the course of its probe.
According to the agency, these electronic records indicate that confidential examination material was transferred before the scheduled date of the examination. The allegations remain part of the prosecution’s case presented before the court.
WhatsApp conversations and communication network examined
The chargesheet also mentions that investigators recovered additional digital records from devices seized from other accused persons. During searches, the agency allegedly found a WhatsApp group named “NEET 2026” on a mobile phone seized from accused Manisha Sanjay Waghmare.
The CBI has alleged that this group formed part of a wider communication network through which information related to the leaked examination papers was exchanged. Investigators further claim that the electronic evidence indicates the question papers passed through several intermediaries instead of moving directly from subject experts to candidates.
Investigators allege financial arrangements behind the leak
According to the investigation, confidential examination material allegedly travelled through brokers and private operators before reaching candidates who had reportedly agreed to pay significant amounts. The agency further stated that its findings were supported by call detail records, mobile phone extraction reports and forensic examinations of electronic devices.
The CBI has claimed that these digital records corresponded with timelines described by witnesses during questioning, strengthening what it considers a consistent chain of evidence.
Chargesheet cites supporting documents and electronic trail
The chargesheet further alleges that investigators recovered original educational certificates, blank signed cheques and other documents that were reportedly exchanged among members of the alleged network as security for future payments connected with the leaked examination papers. The agency has treated these recoveries as supporting evidence of an alleged financial arrangement linked to the conspiracy.
Based on digital evidence, witness statements and materials recovered during the investigation, the CBI has filed charges against 13 accused, including three subject experts appointed by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The accused have been booked under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The agency has maintained before the court that the electronic evidence constitutes a significant component of its prosecution in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case.