NEET 2026 paper leak: Rajasthan family linked to 2025 exam too, sources say

The NEET-UG 2026 paper leak scandal has taken a significant turn with revelations that a family from Rajasthan, central to the current controversy, may have also been involved in obtaining and distributing the NEET 2025 examination paper. Sources close to the investigation suggest that the Biwal family, already under intense scrutiny for their alleged role in the 2026 leak, had purportedly procured medical entrance exam papers in previous years as well, including for the 2025 examination. According to reports, the Rajasthan Police initially investigated brothers Mangi Lal and Dinesh Biwal, who are now in the custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). These brothers are accused not only of leaking this year's NEET-UG paper to coaching centers in Sikar but also of allegedly procuring exam papers for their own family members and subsequently selling them to others in prior years. Further investigation by authorities indicates that all five children of the Biwal family may have received the NEET 2025 question paper before the examination took place. Vikas Biwal, son of alleged kingpin Mangilal, is reportedly involved in the distribution of the leaked paper, with investigators claiming that a sum of Rs 65 lakh was paid for its procurement and distribution. The Biwal family had previously gained significant attention when four of its members secured admissions to government medical colleges through NEET 2025, a success story that was widely celebrated and highlighted by coaching centers and media. However, this past success is now under a cloud of suspicion, with investigators examining whether these admissions were a result of unfair practices linked to the alleged paper leak racket. The alleged paper leak chain has been traced to a network spanning multiple states, with Maharashtra-based individuals and a network in Gurugram identified as key links. Shubham Khairnar from Nashik and Yash Yadav from Gurugram are among those accused of being involved in sharing the leaked paper. The leak was reportedly exposed after Dinesh Biwal's son, Rishi, distributed the papers, prompting a rival coaching institute to alert the National Testing Agency (NTA). In response to the widespread irregularities and the confirmed paper leak, the NEET UG 2026 examination, which was initially held on May 3, 2026, was cancelled. The re-examination has been scheduled for June 21, 2026, and the NTA has assured that it will be conducted under strict security measures. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan admitted to a "breach in the chain of command" and stated that the government is taking responsibility for the situation. As a measure to strengthen the examination system and prevent future leaks, the government has announced that the NEET-UG examination will transition to a fully Computer-Based Test (CBT) format from 2027. This move aims to enhance security by eliminating the physical paper trail associated with printing, storage, and transportation. The CBI investigation is ongoing, with authorities working to uncover the full extent of the alleged interstate network involved in the paper leak. The focus remains on identifying all beneficiaries and conspirators, and ensuring that the integrity of future examinations is upheld. The controversy has significantly impacted over 22 lakh medical aspirants who appeared for the NEET UG 2026 exam. The cancellation and subsequent re-examination have raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of the Indian examination system, prompting calls for comprehensive reforms. It is important to note that while allegations regarding the 2025 NEET examination are being investigated, no formal confirmation or ruling has been made by any court of law regarding the compromise of the 2025 results, including the Biwal family's selections. The economic aspect of the alleged leak also comes into play, with reports suggesting that substantial payments, ranging from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 30 lakh for procurement and up to Rs 65 lakh for distribution, were made to obtain the leaked papers. This case underscores a pattern of alleged paper leaks in India's high-stakes entrance examinations, with previous incidents involving the NEET UG 2024 examination also leading to investigations and charges. The current investigation is a crucial step towards restoring faith in the examination process, ensuring that only meritorious and deserving candidates gain admission to medical colleges. The transition to a CBT format is expected to be a significant deterrent against such malpractices in the future.

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