Maharashtra TET Leak Exposes Major Gaps in Exam Security
Investigation reveals how TET papers were smuggled out for Rs 8,000.
Investigators probing the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) 2026 paper leak have uncovered an alleged security breach in which confidential examination papers were smuggled out of a secret printing press in Agra by being concealed inside a shoe. The examination, scheduled for June 28 across 1,028 centres in Maharashtra, was to be taken by more than six lakh aspiring teachers. According to the investigation, the leak exposed significant lapses in the security arrangements despite strict confidentiality measures.
Officials said the question papers were printed at a confidential press in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, whose identity was known only to senior officials of the Maharashtra State Examination Council as part of long-standing protocols to safeguard examination material. Investigators allege that between June 15 and June 17, an employee at the printing facility folded copies of the question papers and hid them beneath the insole of his shoe before walking past security personnel. Although former Army personnel were deployed to frisk employees, investigators found that footwear was reportedly not checked.
According to the probe, both Paper 1 and Paper 2 had two separate sets printed so that one could be randomly selected on the examination day to prevent leaks. However, investigators allege that all four sets were smuggled out over three days, effectively defeating the randomisation safeguard. Authorities claim the employee and two associates were allegedly paid Rs 8,000 each for the operation and were promised a plot of land as an additional incentive.
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The investigation has identified Bijendra Gupta as the alleged mastermind behind the paper leak. He remains absconding, while law enforcement agencies continue efforts to trace him and determine the full extent of the network involved. Officials are examining whether additional individuals linked to the printing process, distribution chain or examination management played a role in facilitating the leak.
The Maharashtra TET paper leak surfaced less than two months after the controversy surrounding the NEET-UG examination, once again raising concerns over the security of competitive examinations in India. Authorities are reviewing the existing protocols governing confidential printing, transportation and storage of examination papers to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen future safeguards against similar incidents.
The investigation is continuing, with officials gathering evidence and recording statements from those connected to the case. Authorities have indicated that further arrests are possible as the probe progresses. The findings are expected to influence future examination security measures, with greater emphasis likely to be placed on physical security checks, surveillance systems and stricter monitoring of personnel handling confidential examination materials.
Also Read: NTA Implements Extensive Safeguards For NEET-UG Re-Exam; Multi-Agencies Coordinate Security
