India News | Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde Seeks MCOCA Action Against Alleged TET Paper Leak 'masterminds'

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has called for the stringent Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) against the alleged 'masterminds' behind the recent Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak, a move that has escalated the probe into a major organised crime investigation. The Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) 2026, which was slated for June 28, was abruptly postponed on Saturday after a police probe in Bhiwandi uncovered a question paper leak, impacting around six lakh aspiring teachers across the state. This development follows closely on the heels of the national NEET 2026 examination irregularities, further spotlighting the vulnerability of India's examination system. Police in Bhiwandi, part of Thane district, arrested three individuals, identified as Akash Kumar, Rajiv Shah, and Dhiraj Kumar, who were found in possession of the leaked papers and allegedly planned to sell them for a hefty sum of Rs 1.5 crore. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly probe the matter, as opposition parties like the Maha Vikas Aghadi criticize the government over the recurring leaks. As the SIT launches a full-scale investigation, with multiple teams reportedly dispatched to other states, candidates are left in limbo awaiting a new exam date from the Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE). The push for MCOCA indicates the state's resolve to treat such leaks as serious organised criminal activity, sending a strong message to those attempting to compromise the integrity of public examinations. Authorities are under immense pressure to not only nab the culprits but also implement robust, long-term reforms to restore trust in the system.