Three NTA experts at center of NEET paper leak probe

A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged paper leak of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) has identified three Pune-based National Testing Agency (NTA) subject experts as the primary sources of the leak.

The accused experts, P V Kulkarni (chemistry), Manisha Sanjay Havaldar (physics), and Manisha Gurunath Mandhare (botany and zoology), allegedly abused their positions to provide leaked questions to students. The paper leak had triggered widespread agitation across India, leading to the cancellation of the May 3 exam and a subsequent re-examination on June 21.

Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, involved in all stages of paper preparation, allegedly ran Biology classes from her residence. She used students' textbooks, marking and dictating paragraphs containing leaked questions, and coordinated through a WhatsApp group. She also assisted with English-to-Marathi translations of master sets, correcting students' transcribed notes.

P V Kulkarni, engaged for item writing and back-translation, reportedly exploited a lack of security checks in the NTA's confidential wing. He is accused of noting down all 135 chemistry questions and answers on paper chits and smuggling them out. Kulkarni allegedly held chemistry classes for a few days in April for nine students, leaking questions for money.

Manisha Sanjay Havaldar, who handled translation and back-translation, did not conduct classes. However, she allegedly memorized and wrote down around 68 physics questions from sets 1, 2, and 4 on sheets while staying in Delhi. She is accused of dictating these questions to someone in exchange for payment.