NEET Paper Leak Probe Must Be Transparent, Culprits Must Face Action: Sakina Itoo
J&K Health Minister calls for accountability as national investigation into examination irregularities expands across multiple states
Jammu, May 14 : Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo on May 14 reiterated the need for a fully transparent and unbiased inquiry into the alleged irregularities linked to the NEET-UG examination, stressing that those responsible must face strict legal consequences if found guilty.
Speaking in Srinagar amid growing concern over the controversy, she said the issue has deeply unsettled students and parents across the country and highlighted the importance of protecting the credibility of India’s competitive examination system.
The minister underlined that the interests of genuine aspirants must remain the top priority, adding that no candidate should suffer due to the actions of individuals involved in malpractice or procedural violations. She emphasised that accountability should be ensured at every stage of the investigation process.
Her statement comes at a time when central investigative agencies, including the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), are continuing their probe into the alleged NEET-UG 2026 question paper leak case. Authorities have already carried out arrests and detentions across multiple states as part of widening enforcement action.
Officials familiar with the investigation said the case involves suspected organised networks allegedly responsible for attempting to compromise the examination process. The probe has expanded to examine possible lapses in paper handling, distribution chains and digital security mechanisms.
Education sector observers noted that the controversy has triggered renewed debate on examination security frameworks in India, particularly for high-stakes national entrance tests that determine admission to medical institutions.
Sakina Itoo stressed that restoring public confidence in the examination system is essential, warning that repeated incidents of irregularities could damage trust among millions of students preparing for competitive exams each year.
She further said that investigative agencies must function without pressure or bias to ensure that every individual involved in wrongdoing is identified and brought to justice.
Student organisations and parents’ associations have also expressed concern over the situation, urging authorities to speed up the investigation and provide clarity on the examination process moving forward.
Experts in education policy suggest that the incident highlights the need for stronger technological safeguards, improved monitoring systems and stricter enforcement protocols to prevent future breaches.
Authorities are expected to continue interrogations and evidence collection in the coming weeks as part of efforts to establish the full extent of the alleged paper leak network and its operational structure.
