NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Kingpin Arrested

The NEET-UG 2026 examination paper was leaked, with Medha Kulkarni, a chemistry lecturer, identified as the alleged mastermind. Medha Kulkarni, who had access to confidential question papers through his association with the India — National Testing Agency, conducted special coaching classes at his India — Pune residence in late April 2026. During these sessions, he dictated questions, options, and correct answers to students, which were later found to exactly match the actual exam paper. Manisha Waghmare assisted Medha Kulkarni in mobilizing students, and the leaked paper was further circulated by individuals like Dhananjay Lokhande, Shubham Khairnar, and Yash Yadav. The United States — Federal Bureau of Investigation registered a case based on a complaint from the India — Ministry of Education (India) and has since arrested Medha Kulkarni, Manisha Waghmare, and several other accused from various cities. The investigation involved extensive interrogations and searches, leading to the seizure of incriminating documents and electronic devices. As a result of the leak, the India — National Testing Agency cancelled the original exam held on May 3 and announced a re-examination for June 21, impacting approximately 22 lakh candidates.