CBI Files Chargesheet Against 13 in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Case, Probe Into NTA Officials Continues
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed its first chargesheet against 13 accused in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case, marking a significant step in one of India’s biggest examination fraud investigations. The chargesheet, submitted before the Rouse Avenue Court in New Delhi, names alleged masterminds, middlemen, and beneficiaries who are accused of conspiring to leak and circulate the medical entrance examination paper before the test. The matter is scheduled to be heard by a special fast-track court constituted to deal with paper leak cases.
The CBI has clarified that while the chargesheet has been filed against 13 individuals, its investigation into the possible involvement of National Testing Agency (NTA) officials and others is still in progress.
13 Accused Named in Chargesheet
According to the CBI, the accused allegedly formed an organised network that obtained confidential examination papers before the NEET-UG examination and sold them to candidates through brokers.
Investigators claim the paper was initially procured for approximately ₹10 lakh and later resold to aspirants for nearly ₹12 lakh, generating substantial illegal profits. The chargesheet includes allegations of criminal conspiracy, cheating, destruction of evidence, and offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, along with provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Probe Into NTA Officials Still Ongoing
The CBI has not named any NTA official in the present chargesheet. However, the agency stated that investigations into the role of certain officials, along with forensic examination of electronic evidence and other leads, are continuing.
Officials indicated that supplementary chargesheets could be filed if additional evidence emerges during the ongoing investigation.
Investigation Uncovered an Organised Network
The agency’s investigation traced the alleged leak from its source to the candidates who benefited from it. According to investigators, the conspiracy involved subject experts, intermediaries, and beneficiaries working together to circulate the examination paper before the test.
The chargesheet is supported by extensive evidence, including digital forensic analysis, financial records, witness statements, and electronic communications collected during the probe.
Case to Be Heard by Fast-Track Court
The chargesheet has been submitted before the Special Judge at Rouse Avenue Court, where the matter will now proceed for judicial scrutiny.
The establishment of a dedicated fast-track court for examination fraud cases is intended to ensure quicker disposal of high-profile paper leak investigations and strengthen public confidence in the integrity of competitive examinations.
Background of the NEET-UG 2026 Controversy
The NEET-UG 2026 examination, conducted on May 3, was cancelled after allegations of a question paper leak surfaced from multiple locations. The examination was reconducted on June 21, and revised results were declared on July 16.
Following widespread protests and demands for an independent inquiry, the Union Government transferred the investigation to the CBI, which has since carried out arrests, forensic analysis, and multiple searches across different states.
A Major Step, But Investigation Continues
The filing of the first chargesheet represents an important milestone in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak investigation, but the case is far from over. The CBI has made it clear that the investigation remains active, particularly regarding the possible role of additional conspirators and any involvement of officials connected with the examination process.
As the court begins hearing the case, further developments are expected based on ongoing forensic analysis and supplementary evidence collected by investigators.
