NEET paper leak probe finds Nashik coaching hub nexus, Telegram network, shadow server
The investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak scandal has uncovered what officials describe as a sophisticated multi-state conspiracy, allegedly planned in Nashik and executed through Sikar, a major coaching hub, media reports said.
According to NDTV's sources, the question papers were leaked using advanced methods, including portable scanners, encrypted messaging platforms, a Telegram network and a shadow server used to conceal digital transfers.
How the leak spread across states
According to investigators, the first digital copy of the leaked paper was created in Nashik. A physical version was later printed at a local press.
From there, the papers allegedly moved to Gurugram, then to Jaipur, and finally to Sikar.
From Sikar, the leaked material was reportedly distributed to candidates in Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar and Kerala.
Portable scanners, Telegram, and WhatsApp
NDTV, quoting sources, reported that the papers were not photographed using mobile phones to avoid detection. Instead, criminals allegedly used high-definition portable scanners before circulating copies through Telegram and WhatsApp.
Investigators are also examining a Telegram group called “Private Mafia”, said to have around 400 members. The group description allegedly indicated it was created solely to share leaked exam papers.
Shadow server, courier angle under scanner
A shadow server based in Nashik, reportedly operating through a leased line linked to a small IT startup, was allegedly used to hide data movement.
Agencies suspect that an employee of a private courier company may have helped the accused access storage trunks containing question papers for around 30 minutes.
‘Guess papers’ matched real exam
The leaked papers were allegedly distributed as “guess papers”.
Investigators suspect some coaching institutes in Sikar may have played a role by using these papers to train select students ahead of the exam.
Officials found that all 90 biology questions in the actual NEET paper matched the so-called guess paper.
In chemistry, 35 of 46 questions reportedly matched, with some wording and punctuation identical.
15 arrested, CBI takes over
Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) has arrested 15 people so far, including Manish Yadav and Rakesh Mandwaria, who are suspected to have links with a consultancy centre in Sikar.
The Nashik Crime Branch has also arrested Shubham Khairnar.
The Rajasthani SOG has now handed the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). All 15 accused are expected to be transferred to the central agency.
The NEET-UG 2026, held on May 3, was cancelled by the National Testing Agency (NTA) after multiple complaints of irregularities. A fresh exam date is expected to be announced later.
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