NEW DELHI, August 12, 2026 : A Delhi court on Wednesday took cognisance of the CBI chargesheet in the NEET paper leak case, formally moving the proceedings towards the next stage of the trial.
Special Judge Ajay Gupta took cognisance of the agency’s final report against 13 accused in the case linked to the alleged leakage of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) question paper.
The CBI recently filed its final report before the designated fast-track court established to deal with criminal cases arising from examination paper leaks and the use of unfair means in public examinations.
Arguments on Charges Likely From Thursday
The court is expected to begin hearing arguments on the framing of charges against the accused from Thursday.
The CBI’s chargesheet contains details of the agency’s investigation, including evidence and statements of witnesses. During Wednesday’s proceedings, however, the agency raised concerns over the publication of witness-related information in the media.
The investigating agency informed the court that some witnesses whose names were being published by sections of the media could potentially be minors.
Court Expresses Displeasure Over Media Reports
The court expressed strong displeasure over the publication of names of witnesses and details contained in the chargesheet before they were formally discussed in open court.
The judge observed that it was “very shocking” that material which had not yet been presented before the court and remained part of the chargesheet was being made public through media reports.
The court stressed that responsible media organisations should exercise restraint while reporting sensitive details from the case.
Sensitive Evidence Under Scrutiny
The court’s observations highlight concerns surrounding the disclosure of potentially sensitive information involving witnesses, particularly where minors may be concerned.
The matter assumes significance as the case moves towards consideration of charges, with the court expected to examine the evidence and allegations against the 13 accused before deciding the next course of proceedings.
The NEET paper leak case is part of the wider controversy surrounding alleged irregularities and unfair practices in competitive examinations, which had triggered a major investigation and public concern over the integrity of India’s examination system.
With the CBI chargesheet now taken on record, the focus will shift to the arguments on charges and the evidence relied upon by the investigating agency.
