Maharashtra HSC Chemistry Paper Leak Sparks Outrage in Nagpur

The ongoing Maharashtra Board Exams 2026 have been overshadowed by an alleged paper leak incident reported from Nagpur, where the HSC (Class 12) Chemistry question paper was reportedly circulated on WhatsApp nearly an hour before the examination on February 18.

The case surfaced at St. Ursula Girls' High School & Junior College after a student was allegedly caught using a smartphone inside the examination hall. Authorities were alerted immediately, prompting a police investigation. Initial findings suggest that a teacher associated with a private coaching centre may have orchestrated the leak. Around 13 students are suspected to have accessed and attempted to solve the leaked paper prior to the exam.

Investigators have also uncovered indications that the malpractice may extend beyond a single subject. The HSC Physics paper, conducted on February 16, was allegedly shared on WhatsApp in a similar manner. Officials are now examining digital records, questioning suspects and tracing communication channels to determine the scale of the operation.

The Maharashtra HSC examinations are being conducted from February 10 to March 11, 2026, while the SSC (Class 10) exams are scheduled from February 20 to March 18, 2026. With thousands of students appearing statewide, the incident has raised concerns over exam security and monitoring mechanisms at centres.

Authorities have stressed that strict action will be taken against those involved and reiterated the importance of following examination rules. Students have been reminded that electronic devices such as smartphones, Bluetooth gadgets and earphones are strictly prohibited inside exam halls.

Officials have urged candidates and parents to rely only on verified updates from the board and avoid circulating unconfirmed information on social media as the investigation continues.