Education Ministry seeks report on private firm as NEET-UG paper leak probe intensifies

The Union Ministry of Education has stepped up its response to the alleged NEET-UG paper leak controversy by initiating an internal review and seeking a detailed report on the appointment of a private company involved in examination operations.

According to senior ministry sources, authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged breach and are examining the role of COEMPT, a private firm that was awarded a contract linked to examination infrastructure and operations.

Officials said the ministry has requested detailed information on the process through which the company secured the contract. Investigators are also reviewing the firm's technical qualifications and previous performance records as part of the inquiry.

Sources indicated that the government is treating the alleged paper leak and data security concerns as a matter of high priority. The review is expected to assess whether any lapses occurred in the management or oversight of examination-related processes.

Ministry officials have warned that strict action will be taken if any individuals or organizations are found responsible for negligence or involvement in irregularities.

The inquiry is being conducted alongside ongoing consultations with cybersecurity agencies and examination authorities to determine the extent of the alleged security breach and identify possible vulnerabilities in the system.

As part of broader efforts to strengthen examination security, the government has already transferred the primary investigation to central agencies and initiated a series of reforms aimed at preventing future incidents.

A high-level committee of technical experts has also been constituted to recommend changes to the examination ecosystem, including stronger biometric authentication measures at examination centers, enhanced digital security infrastructure, and advanced encryption mechanisms for question paper transmission.

Officials noted that additional safeguards have already been introduced, including the transportation of examination papers using Indian Air Force aircraft.

The ministry has indicated that the findings of the ongoing investigation will guide a wider restructuring of examination management procedures, with a focus on improving transparency, accountability, and security in the conduct of national-level entrance tests.