Ravinder Raina on Saturday accused the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference-led government of running a “massive transfer corruption racket” involving postings and transfers of engineers in different government departments. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The former BJP J&K president alleged that a minister in the government headed by Omar Abdullah, along with some senior officials, was involved in taking large bribes for favourable postings of Executive Engineers (XENs), Assistant Executive Engineers (AEEs), and Junior Engineers (JEs).
According to Raina, several officers were allegedly forced to pay huge amounts of money for desired postings and were later asked to pay again if changes were made to their transfer orders.
“Some engineers have been transferred three times in just one year. This clearly shows a well-organised transfer industry operating within the government,” Raina claimed.
The BJP leader further said he possessed evidence and statements from affected officials and challenged the Chief Minister to take strict action against those allegedly involved.
He also offered to submit all documents and proof if the government initiated an inquiry into the matter.
Raina criticised the silence of both the Chief Minister and anti-corruption agencies over the allegations and demanded immediate intervention.
The allegations come amid continuing political attacks by the BJP against the National Conference-Congress alliance government over issues related to governance and administration in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Omar Abdullah government had not issued any official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.
3 Indian Army officers had a narrow escape after a Cheetah helicopter crashed in the Tangste region near Leh in Ladakh during an operational sortie, officials said on Saturday.
According to officials, the crash took place on May 20 in the mountainous high-altitude area. All three officers on board sustained minor injuries and are reported to be safe.
The helicopter was reportedly piloted by a Lieutenant Colonel and a Major, while Major General Sachin Mehta was travelling as a passenger.
Officials said the difficult terrain and harsh weather conditions in Ladakh once again highlighted the serious operational challenges faced by military pilots deployed in remote mountainous regions.
A selfie reportedly taken by Major General Mehta after the crash later surfaced on social media and quickly went viral, with many users describing the officers’ survival as miraculous considering the rugged terrain and the ageing condition of the helicopter fleet.
Authorities have ordered an official inquiry to determine the exact cause of the crash.
The incident has also renewed concerns regarding the safety and reliability of the Indian Army’s ageing Cheetah helicopters, which have remained in service since the 1970s.
The helicopters are widely used by the armed forces for operations in difficult mountain areas such as Siachen and Ladakh because of their ability to operate in extreme high-altitude conditions.
Over the decades, the Cheetah fleet has played an important role in several military missions, including Operation Meghdoot launched in 1984 to secure strategic positions in the Siachen Glacier region.
Mehbooba Mufti has expressed concern over the registration of an FIR against Kashmiri Pandit activists who were protesting against the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in relation to relief and ration benefits for displaced migrant families. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Peoples Democratic Party president said the concerns raised by the Kashmiri Pandit community were based on genuine fears regarding their separate identity and status as displaced migrants, which had been recognised by successive governments over the years.
Mehbooba said that after decades of displacement, uncertainty, and trauma, the community deserved empathy and meaningful engagement instead of criminal cases for expressing its concerns.
Reacting to reports of police action against the protesters, she said the growing tendency to respond to dissent with FIRs and intimidation was worrying and harmful to democratic values.
She added that peaceful protests should not be treated as criminal acts, especially when communities are raising issues connected to their rehabilitation, survival, and legal safeguards.
The former Chief Minister said several Kashmiri Pandit organisations were opposing the move to bring migrant relief rations under the NFSA framework. According to her, many in the community fear the decision could weaken their distinct migrant status and gradually reduce the special relief and rehabilitation measures created for families displaced from the Valley during the 1990s.
She said many community members viewed the move as an attempt to convert a humanitarian issue linked to displacement into an ordinary welfare scheme.
Mehbooba stressed that the matter should be resolved through dialogue and confidence-building measures rather than police action and legal pressure.
“The pain and displacement suffered by Kashmiri Pandits is a reality that cannot be ignored. Any decision affecting them should only be taken after proper consultation with the community,” she said.
She further stated that democratic governments must allow citizens to raise concerns peacefully and warned that using police action against every disagreement only increases mistrust and alienation.
Mehbooba Mufti urged the administration to withdraw the FIR and begin transparent discussions with representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community regarding their concerns over the NFSA implementation.
ammu and Kashmir police arrested an over ground worker (OGW) with two grenades and posters in Mohammadpora village of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Thursday.
A senior police officer said that the accused, identified as Adil Hussain Lone, son of Mohammad Sadiq Lone, resident of Mohammadpora Kulgam, was arrested near his native village during an operation conducted by Kulgam Police.
During the search, police recovered two hand grenades along with some posters from his possession, he said.
In connection with the incident, an FIR has been registered under relevant Sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Explosive Substances Act, officer said.
Further investigation into the matter is underway, he added. (JKNS)
Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) chief and Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid (Er Rashid) has hinted at quitting electoral politics, citing the immense personal and family toll it has taken over the years.
While addressing mourners at the funeral of his father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, in his ancestral village Mawer Payeen, Handwara, Rashid emotionally revealed that he is seriously considering stepping away from contesting elections in the future. He was granted interim bail from Delhi’s Tihar Jail to attend the last rites. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Main Reasons Behind His Decision:
Heavy Personal and Family Cost: Rashid has spent several years in jail. During this period, he lost several close relatives, including now his father. The prolonged incarceration and political struggle have caused deep personal suffering for him and his family.
Struggle Beyond Power and Elections: He clarified that his fight was never just for votes, power, Article 370, or statehood. It has always been for the dignity, honour, justice, and freedom of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He feels electoral politics may no longer be the most effective way to continue this struggle.
Emotional Exhaustion: In his heartfelt address, Rashid said he wants to give “good news” to those who only focus on vote politics. “I may not contest elections in the future… the thought has come from my heart,” he stated, adding that a final decision is yet to be taken.
Strong Appeal for Peace in J&K:
While hinting at quitting elections, Engineer Rashid made an emotional appeal for peace:
“Let me remain in Tihar Jail, but let peace prevail in Jammu and Kashmir.”
He urged both India and Pakistan to end violence and allow Kashmiris (whether Hindu or Muslim) to live with dignity and without fear.
Rashid emphasised that reconciliation, trust-building, and winning the hearts of the people — especially the youth — is the only way forward, instead of using harsh laws and force.
He drew a parallel with authorities trying to reform a man-eating leopard, questioning why the government cannot adopt a similar compassionate approach towards Kashmiris.
This statement comes while Rashid continues to remain lodged in Tihar Jail in connection with a terror-funding case, even after winning the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat from prison in 2024.
At a seminar organized to commemorate the 36th martyrdom anniversary of Mirwaiz Mohammad Farooq, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Umar Farooq called on parents to take a more active role in the overall upbringing of their children rather than concentrating only on academic achievements. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing the gathering at the seminar titled “Holistic Education for a Healthy Society,” Mirwaiz Umar Farooq emphasized that true education goes beyond marks, grades, and examinations. He said parents should invest quality time with their children, understand their emotional and social challenges, and contribute to their personality and character development.
“Parents should not limit themselves to monitoring marks and results. They must actively participate in the affairs of their children — spend time with them, encourage physical activities, and help develop their mind, body, and soul,” he said.
The Mirwaiz also expressed concern over the growing addiction to mobile phones and digital devices among children. According to him, excessive screen time is negatively affecting the physical health, mental well-being, and social behavior of the younger generation.
He stressed the importance of a balanced education system that combines academic learning with moral and spiritual values, physical fitness, outdoor activities, sports, and ethical upbringing rooted in Islamic teachings.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq stated that the real measure of success is not producing “toppers” alone, but raising responsible, balanced, and morally grounded individuals capable of contributing positively to society.
The seminar was attended by educationists, scholars, parents, and members of civil society, who discussed the growing challenges faced by the youth in Kashmir and the need for a healthier educational and social environment.
Baramulla MP Makes Emotional Appeal During Funeral Gathering
Handwara, May 20, 2026: Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid broke down emotionally during the funeral of his father on Tuesday and made a passionate appeal for peace, dignity, and compassion towards the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing a large gathering while struggling to hold back tears, the jailed parliamentarian, currently out on interim bail to attend the last rites of his father, said he was prepared to remain behind bars but would continue raising his voice.
“I do not care if I remain in jail forever, but I will not stop speaking,” he said emotionally.
During his address, Er Rashid strongly condemned drug abuse and those involved in promoting narcotics.
“Whoever promotes the use of drugs is not worthy of being called a Muslim,” he said.
He also appealed to both India and Pakistan not to allow ordinary Kashmiris to suffer due to political tensions.
“Do whatever you want between both nations, this time or next, but do not torment my Kashmiris. Do not kill the people of Jammu and Kashmir, whether they are Hindu or Muslim,” he said.
The MP asserted that Kashmiris could not be subdued through force and called for an approach based on love and understanding.
“You take one step forward with love, and we will come running to you. But no one can defeat us Kashmiris by showing off their power,” he added.
Er Rashid further said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir should not be viewed as enemies.
“I want to tell the people of India that the people of Jammu and Kashmir are not your enemies, nor does our religion, Islam, teach us to be enemies of anyone,” he said.
Welcoming tourists to the Valley, he said visitors were always welcome in Kashmir but urged them not to view tourism through a political lens.
“Tourists are welcome across Kashmir, but do not come with the mindset that you have won Kashmir,” he remarked.
Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, father of Engineer Rashid, passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) after a prolonged illness. Thousands of people attended the funeral prayers in Mawar area of Handwara.
It was supposed to be just another chapter in the inspiring journey of a small-town teacher who built a coaching empire. Instead, it has turned into one of the most painful headlines in this year’s NEET saga.
On Sunday evening, the Central Bureau of Investigation arrested Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar — affectionately known as “M Sir” among thousands of NEET and JEE aspirants — from his residence in Latur, Maharashtra. He is the founder and director of Renukai Chemistry Classes (RCC), a well-known coaching network that helped countless students chase their doctor dreams.
According to the CBI, Motegaonkar was an “active member of an organised gang” involved in leaking and circulating the NEET-UG 2026 Chemistry paper. Investigators claim a copy of the leaked question paper was recovered from his mobile phone during searches. He allegedly received it around April 23 — more than a week before the May 3 exam — and shared it further.
This makes him the 10th arrest in the widening probe that has already shaken the National Testing Agency and the entire coaching industry.
Who is M Sir?
For students in Maharashtra, Shivraj Motegaonkar wasn’t just another teacher. The M.Sc. gold medalist rose from humble beginnings to create a multi-branch coaching empire focused on conceptual clarity and motivational guidance. RCC grew into a major name with nine centres, a strong YouTube presence, and a reputation for producing medical college successes. Many saw him as a mentor who genuinely cared.
That’s what makes this news particularly heartbreaking for his students and their families. One day you’re learning chemical bonding from your favourite sir; the next, you’re reading that he’s in CBI custody.
The Bigger Picture
The NEET-UG 2026 exam has been mired in controversy from the start. After widespread reports of leaks and irregularities, the exam was eventually cancelled and a re-test scheduled. The CBI’s investigation has traced connections from paper-setters to coaching networks, exposing how deep the alleged racket may run.
Motegaonkar’s arrest has once again put the spotlight on the intense, high-stakes world of entrance exam coaching — where lakhs of rupees, sleepless nights, and shattered dreams collide.
As the probe continues and he remains in CBI custody, many are left wondering how someone who built his career helping students could allegedly betray that very trust.
For now, the dreams of thousands of honest aspirants hang in the balance once more — waiting for answers, accountability, and hopefully, a fairer system ahead.
The Nimaz-e-Jinazah of Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, father of Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, will be held tomorrow at 2 PM in Mawar Payeen area of Handwara.
Family sources said Engineer Rashid is expected to arrive at his ancestral village Mawar at around 11 AM tomorrow following the interim bail granted to him by the court to attend the last rites of his father. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh passed away at the age of 85 at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi after a prolonged illness.
Large numbers of relatives, political workers, well-wishers, and local residents are expected to participate in the funeral prayers.
Jailed Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid was on Monday granted interim bail by a court to attend the last rites of his father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, who passed away at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Delhi after a prolonged illness. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The 85-year-old had been undergoing treatment at different hospitals in Srinagar before being shifted to AIIMS Delhi for advanced medical care, where he died.
According to the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), the court granted interim bail soon after news of his father’s death emerged, allowing the jailed MP to participate in funeral prayers and perform the final rites according to religious customs.
Speaking to news agency KNS, an AIP spokesperson said Engineer Rashid was expected to arrive at Srinagar Airport around 4 PM.
Engineer Rashid has been lodged in Tihar Jail since 2019 after being arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in a terror funding case.
Meanwhile, political leaders, party workers, and people from different sections of society expressed condolences with the bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, father of jailed Baramulla Member of Parliament Engineer Rashid, passed away at the age of 85 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi late Sunday night or early Monday morning after a prolonged illness.
According to family sources, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh had been battling multiple health issues for a long time. He was initially admitted to a Chest Diseases Hospital in Srinagar and later shifted to SMHS Hospital after his condition worsened. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
On May 2, 2026, doctors airlifted him to AIIMS Delhi for advanced medical treatment, where he passed away despite continuous medical care.
AIP Demands Engineer Rashid’s Temporary Release
Following his death, the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) appealed to the Central Government to grant Engineer Rashid parole or temporary bail so he can attend his father’s funeral and perform the last rites.
AIP chief spokesperson Inam Un Nabi described the matter as humanitarian and urged authorities to allow Rashid to stand with his family during the difficult time.
“Let a son bury his father,” he said while appealing for his temporary release.
Background of Engineer Rashid
Sheikh Abdul Rashid, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, is currently lodged in Tihar Jail in Delhi after being arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in 2019 in a terror funding case.
He won the 2024 Lok Sabha elections from Baramulla while remaining in custody and is facing trial under several charges, including provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Earlier in April 2026, the Delhi High Court had granted him one-week interim bail to visit his ailing father in Srinagar. After meeting his father at the hospital, he returned to jail following the completion of the bail period.
Political Leaders Express Condolences
Several political leaders and parties in Jammu and Kashmir expressed grief over the demise of Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh and extended condolences to Engineer Rashid and his family.
Some leaders also supported the demand for his temporary release on humanitarian grounds to allow him to participate in his father’s last rites.
Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh is survived by his sons, grandsons, and other family members.
Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam on Sunday announced that the crescent moon for the holy month of Dhul Hijjah has been sighted in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Grand Mufti said testimonies regarding the moon sighting were received from Kargil and several parts of Jammu and Kashmir.Following the confirmation, he announced that the month of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH will begin from Monday, May 18, 2026. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He further stated that Eid al-Adha will be observed across Jammu and Kashmir on May 27, 2026.Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and prayed that Eid-ul-Adha brings peace, happiness, and prosperity to the region.
Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday called for a comprehensive dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad, saying that any peace process should begin with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. . Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing a workers’ convention, the Peoples Democratic Party president referred to recent remarks made by a senior RSS functionary supporting talks with Pakistan and described the development as a positive step.
However, she stressed that the dialogue should not remain limited to the governments of India and Pakistan alone.
“It should start from Kashmir. It should start from Jammu and Kashmir. This is what our people are demanding,” Mehbooba Mufti said.
She also called for confidence-building measures across the Line of Control (LoC), including reopening trade and travel routes between Uri and Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot.
Mehbooba demanded the opening of more roads and asked the government to return power projects currently managed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
The PDP chief further urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his political influence to work towards a lasting solution to the Kashmir issue.
Recalling PM Modi’s surprise visit to Lahore in 2015, she said the Prime Minister has the authority and opportunity to take bold initiatives for peace.
“If PM Modi wants his name to go down in history, then he has a golden opportunity to find a solution to the Jammu and Kashmir issue, heal the wounds of the people, and involve Pakistan in the process,” she said.
Mehbooba Mufti also demanded the rollback of strict laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA), saying the people of Kashmir deserve peace and freedom after years of suffering.
She added that people in the Valley want better connectivity with Pakistan, China, and Central Asia, and urged authorities to open routes for trade and movement.
Police on Saturday carried out searches at more than 15 locations across Sopore in north Kashmir in connection with a case registered against the banned outfit Jamaat-e-Islami under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), officials said.. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
According to officials, the searches were conducted in Jamia Qadeem, Naseem Bagh, Krankshivan, Tarzoo, Amargarh, Warpora, Bomai, Boitingoo, and several other areas of Sopore.
The operation was linked to FIR No. 42/2025 registered at Police Station Sopore under sections 10 and 13 of the UAPA.
Police said the searches were carried out after obtaining proper warrants from the designated UAPA court. The operation was conducted in the presence of executive magistrates and independent witnesses following legal procedures.
During the raids, police reportedly seized incriminating material, including literature linked to the banned organisation, for further investigation and examination.
Officials said the action is part of ongoing efforts by Sopore Police to identify and take legal action against people allegedly involved in activities connected to banned organisations and anti-national networks.
Police added that further investigation into the case is currently underway.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Abdul Rouf Fazili of Qamarwari, Srinagar, a retired Deputy Conservator of Forests, noted literary figure, and close relative of the Mirwaiz family.
Remembering him as a dignified and intellectual personality, Mirwaiz said Abdul Rouf Fazili was widely respected for his professional honesty and literary work. He especially highlighted Fazili Sahib’s scholarly interest in the philosophy and thoughts of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and praised his English translation of “Awrad-e-Fatheeya”. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Mirwaiz described his death as a major loss for Kashmir’s literary and intellectual circles and recalled the long-standing relationship between the two families.
The Nimaz-e-Jinazah of the deceased was led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and attended by a large number of relatives, admirers, and people from different walks of life.
Among those present at the funeral prayers was Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, who is also closely related to the deceased.
Mirwaiz prayed for maghfirah and the highest place in Jannat for the departed soul. He also expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, especially Abdul Rafia Fazili, and prayed for patience and strength for them during this difficult time.
Ghulam Hasan Sheikh, a senior Hurriyat leader and former Ameer (chief) of Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, breathed his last on Saturday in Kulgam.
Sheikh, a resident of Tarigam village in Kulgam district, was suffering from prolonged illness and was critically ill in the District Hospital Kulgam. He was reportedly in his early nineties. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He had served as Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir for two terms. His demise has been widely condoled across the Kashmir Valley.
Namaz-e-Janaza is expected to be offered at his native village Tarigam later today.
Bharatiya Janata Party workers and leaders on Friday staged a protest in Srinagar against the operation of wine shops in Kashmir, demanding a complete ban on the sale of liquor in the Valley.
The protest march started from Ram Munshi Bagh in Sonwar and moved towards Gupkar Road, where the residence of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is located.
During the protest, BJP leaders and party workers raised slogans against liquor sale and accused the ruling National Conference of encouraging alcohol sale in the region.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
BJP Kashmir unit co-media incharge Advocate Sajid Yousuf Shah said the party was demanding an immediate ban on wine shops, saying the issue was connected to the social and religious values of Kashmir.
He said the sale of liquor in the Valley was against the cultural and religious sentiments of the people and urged the government to respect public opinion by imposing a complete ban on liquor sale in Kashmir.
Police later stopped the protesters from moving further towards Gupkar Road near the Chief Minister’s residence.
Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested 806 persons and registered 724 cases under the NDPS Act during the first month of the ongoing “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan”, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat said on Thursday.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the DGP said the anti-drug campaign, launched on April 11, witnessed a significant rise in enforcement activities compared to the same period last year.
According to the police chief, authorities seized around 667.5 kilograms of narcotic substances, including 5.22 kilograms of heroin, between April 11 and May 12. Police teams also recovered 19,059 units of psychotropic drugs during the operation.
Prabhat said preventive action was taken against drug trafficking networks, with 24 habitual offenders booked under the PIT NDPS Act.
He further revealed that properties worth nearly Rs 41.85 crore, allegedly linked to narcotics trade, were attached during the campaign. In addition, illegal structures valued at Rs 14.75 crore, constructed on encroached land, were demolished.
One of the major actions during the drive involved the attachment of property worth Rs 6.17 crore in Anantnag district, the DGP said. He added that police also identified and attached properties in Punjab and Chandigarh in connection with narcotics-related investigations.
As part of the awareness campaign, Jammu and Kashmir Police organised 2,401 awareness programmes in vulnerable areas and reached more than three lakh people across the Union Territory.
The DGP said action was also initiated against 151 chemists and druggists for alleged violations linked to drug control regulations. Authorities additionally suspended or cancelled 162 driving licences and 92 vehicle registration certificates.
Officials said recommendations had also been made for impounding 10 passports allegedly connected to drug-related activities.
Highlighting the force’s continued anti-narcotics efforts, Nalin Prabhat claimed that J&K Police ranked first in the country in 2025 in preventive detentions under the PIT NDPS Act.
He said the “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan” would continue with a strong focus on strict enforcement, public awareness, and dismantling drug supply chains across the Union Territory.
For millions of students across India, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is more than just an exam. It represents years of sacrifice, expensive coaching classes, sleepless nights, and the dream of becoming a doctor. That is why allegations that a 30-year-old student from Nashik leaked the NEET paper nearly 45 hours before the examination have caused shock, anger, and deep concern across the country. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The controversy has once again raised serious questions about the security of India’s competitive examinations. How could such an important paper allegedly circulate online long before the exam began? Were messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp used to spread the content? And most importantly, how many students may have received unfair advantage before entering the examination hall?
Here is a detailed breakdown of what is known so far, how investigators believe the leak may have spread, and why this case has become one of the biggest education controversies in recent years.
What Is the NEET Paper Leak Allegation?
According to investigators, a 30-year-old student from Nashik is accused of being connected to the alleged leak of the NEET 2026 examination paper nearly 45 hours before the exam officially started.
The case reportedly came to light after suspicious material began circulating online through private messaging channels and groups. Authorities are now investigating:
How the accused allegedly obtained the paper
Whether insiders were involved
The role of digital platforms
How widely the paper was shared before the exam
The “45 hours before exam” claim has become the most alarming part of the controversy because it suggests enough time existed for organised cheating networks to operate.
Why the 45-Hour Timeline Matters
A leak a few minutes before an exam is damaging.
But a leak almost two days earlier is far more serious.
Experts believe such a long gap could allow:
Full memorisation of answers
Paid circulation among students
Coaching centre solving sessions
Distribution to large private groups
Organised cheating operations
This is why investigators are focusing heavily on the timeline and digital evidence.
How the Alleged Leak May Have Spread
Investigators suspect the paper may have moved through several stages before reaching students.
1. Early Access to the Question Paper
Authorities are trying to determine how the accused allegedly gained access to the paper before the official examination schedule.
Possible areas under investigation include:
Printing facilities
Transportation chains
Storage centres
Insider access points
In many large-scale exam leaks, the weakest point is often human access rather than technology itself.
2. Digital Conversion of the Paper
Once accessed, the paper may have been:
Photographed
Scanned
Converted into PDF format
Shared as screenshots
Digital files spread much faster than physical copies, making them difficult to control once circulation begins.
3. Telegram Distribution
Investigators reportedly suspect that Telegram groups may have played a major role in spreading the leaked material.
Telegram is often used because:
Large groups can contain thousands of users
Anonymous usernames hide identities
Files can be forwarded quickly
Encrypted communication increases privacy
Authorities are now examining whether organised networks used the platform for mass distribution.
4. WhatsApp Forwarding Chains
After appearing on Telegram or other platforms, screenshots and PDFs may have entered WhatsApp groups linked to students and coaching networks.
Once that happens:
Messages spread uncontrollably
Tracking becomes difficult
Verification becomes complicated
Evidence can disappear quickly
This rapid forwarding system is one reason modern exam leaks become so difficult to contain.
Impact on Honest NEET Aspirants
The controversy has deeply affected genuine students preparing honestly for medical admissions.
Many aspirants spend:
Years preparing for NEET
10–14 hours studying daily
Large amounts on coaching institutes
Multiple attempts trying to secure seats
For such students, allegations of paper leaks create:
Fear of unfair competition
Emotional stress
Loss of trust in the system
Anxiety about merit-based selection
Parents have also expressed concern over the credibility of competitive examinations in India.
Why Competitive Exams Remain Vulnerable
The NEET controversy has again exposed weaknesses in India’s examination system.
Common Security Weak Points Include:
Paper printing stages
Transportation routes
Storage facilities
Insider involvement
Weak digital monitoring
Poor surveillance at distribution centres
Experts say that even advanced security systems can fail if a small number of insiders misuse access.
How Investigators Trace Digital Paper Leaks
One important detail often missing from mainstream reports is how cyber investigators actually track leaked exam papers.
Investigators do not only search for the first person who shared the file.
They also examine:
File metadata
Screenshot timestamps
Compression history
Device fingerprints
SIM card records
Cloud backups
Message forwarding patterns
Even when anonymous usernames are used, digital trails can sometimes help authorities reconstruct how the leak spread from one device to another.
This technical investigation may become crucial in the NEET case.
Major Exam Leak Controversies in India
The NEET controversy is not the first major examination scandal in the country.
India has witnessed several major paper leak cases in recent years, including:
The Vyapam scam
SSC examination leaks
State board controversies
Recruitment exam paper leaks
Each controversy has increased public pressure for stronger examination reforms and digital security systems.
What Authorities Are Investigating
Officials are currently trying to determine:
Whether the leaked paper was genuine
How early the circulation began
How many students received access
Whether organised groups were involved
If insiders helped facilitate the leak
Authorities may also investigate coaching networks and digital communication channels linked to the case.
The Bigger Question: Can Students Still Trust the System?
For many students, the biggest damage is not just the alleged leak itself — it is the loss of trust.
Competitive exams are supposed to reward:
Hard work
Merit
Discipline
Equal opportunity
When allegations of organised leaks emerge, students begin questioning whether honesty alone is enough to succeed.
That is why this controversy has become larger than a single criminal investigation. It has become a national debate about fairness, accountability, and the future credibility of India’s education system.
Quick Summary
Key Detail
Information
Exam
NEET 2026
Main Allegation
Paper leaked 45 hours before exam
Accused
30-year-old student from Nashik
Platforms Under Investigation
Telegram and WhatsApp
Main Concern
Fairness of medical admissions
Focus of Investigation
Source of leak and digital circulation
Conclusion
The alleged NEET paper leak involving a Nashik student has shaken confidence in one of India’s most important entrance examinations. While the investigation is still ongoing, the controversy has already exposed serious concerns about exam security, digital leaks, and the growing role of encrypted messaging platforms in spreading confidential information.
For honest students and families, the case is about much more than one leaked paper. It is about protecting the value of merit, restoring trust in competitive exams, and ensuring that years of hard work are not destroyed by organised cheating networks.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq visited the Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam School in Anantnag after eight years and highlighted the importance of balanced education along with strong moral values.
While speaking to students and staff, Mirwaiz said he was happy to finally visit the institution after authorities allowed him to do so following a long gap of eight years. He appreciated the work being done by the Nusrat-ul-Islam Trust for the welfare of students and the wider community. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He said that the main aim of Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam, whether in Srinagar, Anantnag, or Bijbehara, is to provide quality education together with moral and ethical guidance to young people.
Mirwaiz stressed that education and proper upbringing should go together. He said education should not only focus on degrees and jobs, but also on building good character, understanding responsibilities, and developing human values.
He further said that since its establishment in 1899, Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam has never worked for profit. Instead, its mission has always been to make education accessible for everyone. He added that more than 60 percent of the students studying in the institution come from low-income families and are first-generation learners receiving education at affordable costs.
Speaking about the role of parents, Mirwaiz said parents also have a major responsibility in shaping the moral and ethical behaviour of their children along with supporting their formal education.
During his visit, Mirwaiz also expressed deep sorrow over the recent fire incident at a Darul Uloom in Anantnag in which a student lost his life. He said he wanted to personally visit the institution and stand with the affected families, but authorities did not permit him to do so, which he described as unfortunate.
Later, Mirwaiz inaugurated a new business venture on K.P. Road and encouraged young people to earn halal livelihood with honesty, dignity, and hard work. He said no work is small or big, and with sincerity and dedication, youth can achieve success and positively contribute to society.
