Delhi Police Bust NEET 2026 Scam, 18 Aspirants Rescued from MBBS Fraud Racket

In a major pre-exam crackdown, the Delhi Police Crime Branch dismantled a well-organised fraud network targeting NEET (UG) 2026 aspirants with false promises of guaranteed MBBS admissions . Four accused, including a doctor and the alleged mastermind, were arrested, while 18 students , some of them minors, were rescued from locations where they were being held under the pretext of last-minute preparation. The operation was launched following a key input from Surat Police , which led investigators to conduct technical surveillance and trace the accused to hotels in Mahipalpur Extension , where coordinated raids resulted in arrests.

Investigations revealed a structured modus operandi , with each member assigned a specific role in executing the scam. The accused allegedly created fake question papers using previous years’ material and coaching content, while also arranging logistics and safe houses for students. Families were lured with claims of access to leaked papers and asked to pay between ₹20 lakh to ₹30 lakh , along with submitting original certificates and blank signed cheques . Several students were moved to undisclosed locations, but a swift police operation in Ghaziabad led to their rescue and ensured they could appear for the examination safely.

Officials said the case reflects a broader trend of exam fraud networks exploiting the intense competition for medical seats, with over 20 lakh students appearing for NEET each year. Such rackets increasingly use social media and messaging platforms to spread misinformation about paper leaks and manipulate anxious families. The National Testing Agency (NTA) had already issued warnings ahead of the exam, clarifying that no paper leak had occurred and urging students not to fall prey to such claims.

A case has been registered under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) , and further investigation is underway to identify additional members and possible inter-state links. Authorities are examining financial transactions and digital trails to uncover the full extent of the network. The incident underscores a growing concern over misinformation and highlights how fake leak claims and fraudulent assurances continue to erode trust in high-stakes examinations, making vigilance critical for students and their families.