NEET-UG Leak: 111 of 136 Questions Matched on Tutor's Phone Before Exam

The Central Bureau of Investigation has filed a detailed report alleging that Shivraj Motegaonkar, a coaching tutor in Latur, Maharashtra, received 111 out of 136 questions from the leaked NEET-UG master paper on April 23, 2026—ten days before the exam conducted on May 3. This was part of an elaborate chain involving multiple accused persons. The CBI's investigation has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the National Test Agency (NTA)'s security mechanisms and question paper handling procedures.

Background: NEET-UG 2026 was marred by multiple allegations of paper leaks, leading to widespread student protests and the subsequent cancellation and re-conduct of the examination. This incident represents one of the most serious breaches of examination integrity in recent years.

Key Facts: (1) Systematic leakage through identified chain of custody breach; (2) 111 matching questions out of 136—indicating near-complete question paper compromise; (3) Pre-exam leak enabled advance preparation; (4) Investigation ongoing against multiple persons in the conspiracy.

Why It Matters: This exposes systemic failures in India's largest medical entrance examination, affecting lakhs of aspirants. It raises questions about NTA's operational capacity, institutional checks, and security protocols for high-stakes national examinations.

Exam Angle: Expected Prelims questions on examination reform, institutional accountability, and regulatory mechanisms. Mains essay potential on 'Ensuring Integrity in National-Level Examinations' or examination sector governance. Constitutional angle on right to fair examination under Articles 14-16.