Delhi Court Takes Cognizance: CBI Chargesheet in NEET-UG Paper Leak Case
Summary
- A Delhi court has taken cognizance of the CBI chargesheet against 13 accused in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case.
- The CBI chargesheet names three NTA subject experts as alleged sources of the leaked question paper.
- Forensic examination of electronic devices played a key role in the investigation, leading to the recovery of deleted WhatsApp conversations and PDF documents.
Delhi Court Takes Cognizance of CBI Chargesheet in NEET-UG Paper Leak Case
A Delhi court has taken cognizance of the Central Bureau of Investigation's (CBI) chargesheet against 13 accused in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. The court, presided over by Special Judge Ajay Gupta, expressed concern over media reports publishing witness names and contents of the chargesheet. This development paves the way for the commencement of proceedings on the charges, with arguments on framing of charges, which were scheduled to begin from August 13, having been deferred.
CBI Chargesheet Names Three NTA Subject Experts as Alleged Sources
The CBI chargesheet has identified three National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts who allegedly acted as the primary sources of the leaked NEET-UG question paper. These individuals are P V Kulkarni, a Chemistry expert; Manisha Sanjay Havaldar, a Physics expert; and Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, associated with Botany and Zoology. The CBI has alleged that the paper leak involved a wider conspiracy involving candidates, intermediaries, coaching-centre operators, and subject experts.
Forensic Examination of Electronic Devices Played Key Role in Investigation
The CBI has relied substantially on forensic examination of electronic devices to build its case. Forensic imaging of mobile phones led to the recovery of deleted WhatsApp conversations and PDF documents allegedly containing the leaked questions. This evidence is part of a larger investigation that began with a series of arrests on May 13, which included Mangilal Biwal, Dinesh Biwal, and Vikas Biwal in Rajasthan.
Practical Implications
Lawyers should be aware that the Delhi court's cognizance of the CBI chargesheet may lead to a wider investigation into the NEET-UG paper leak, potentially exposing intermediaries and coaching centre operators involved in the conspiracy. They should watch for updates on the framing of charges and any new developments in the case.
Source
Source: Original reporting via LawBeat
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