So far, the CBI has arrested 10 individuals in connection with the scam, six of whom are from Maharashtra. Investigators believe the case may uncover an even larger network as the probe continues.
Investigators probing the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case have identified Maharashtra as the alleged epicentre of the illegal circulation and sale of examination papers. Preliminary findings suggest that the largest number of leaked papers were distributed in the state, while Rajasthan has emerged as another key hub where students and parents were reportedly approached with offers to purchase question papers for hefty amounts.
According to officials associated with the investigation, the racket specifically targeted coaching centres and educational hubs in Rajasthan. Agencies believe the operation extended across at least five states through a well-organised network rather than being controlled by a single group.
Investigators believe the network behind the leak was highly organised and stretched across multiple regions, connecting states such as Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Bihar. The revelations have triggered serious concerns over the credibility and integrity of the country’s examination system.
Investigators suspect that solver gangs, brokers, and intermediaries played a crucial role in carrying out the scam, raising serious concerns about the integrity of one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations.
The probe has also uncovered the elaborate methods allegedly used by the accused. Instead of communicating directly with candidates, organisers reportedly depended on local middlemen to manage coordination. On the eve of the examination, students were allegedly taken to secret locations such as hotels and farmhouses.
Officials claim that candidates’ mobile phones were confiscated to avoid any leakage of communication, while answers were allegedly taught using coded language and memorisation techniques.
The case gained further attention after the arrest of Shivraj Motegaonkar, founder of the Latur-based Renukai Career Centre (RCC), in Pune on May 18. RCC is considered one of Maharashtra’s leading coaching institutes for NEET, JEE, and CET preparation. The institute operates centres in several cities, including Latur, Pune, Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Nanded, Solapur, Kolhapur, and Akola, and reportedly enrolls around 40,000 students every year. Fees at the institute are believed to range between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 65,000 per student, with an estimated annual turnover exceeding Rs. 100 crore.
The NEET-UG 2026 examination, conducted on May 3, saw participation from nearly 22.7 lakh students. However, following widespread allegations of question paper leaks, the examination was cancelled, and a re-test has now been scheduled for June 21.
So far, the CBI has arrested 10 individuals in connection with the scam, six of whom are from Maharashtra. Investigators believe the case may uncover an even larger network as the probe continues.
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