18 Arrested in Maharashtra TET Paper Leak Scam, Police Reveal Details

Police in Kolhapur district have cracked a major alleged racket behind the Maharashtra TET 2025 question paper leak. A total of 18 persons, including the main accused, have been arrested after a raid at a furniture shop in Songe village, Kagal tehsil — just hours before the exam was due to start. According to police, the group had promised to supply the leaked TET paper to aspiring teachers for ₹3,00,000 each. The arrests follow a tip-off and swift investigation by the Local Crime Branch and Murgud Police.

What the Police Discovered: Modus Operandi, Evidence & Arrests

The leak racket reportedly operated by collecting original educational documents and signed blank cheques from candidates, along with cash payment. The suspects had set up shop at a furniture store, disguised as a regular outlet, to coordinate paper distribution. During the raid on early morning of November 23, police found five candidates waiting at the shop — all scheduled to appear for TET later that day. The prime suspect, Mahesh Gaikwad, was later arrested from Karad in Satara district. Police continue to seek other collaborators and verify the financial trail behind the scam. Authorities have invoked charges under relevant provisions of the state’s anti-malpractice examination law, addressing both document forgery and attempt to commit fraud.

Impact and Reaction: TET Integrity Under Scrutiny

The alleged scandal has shaken confidence in the integrity of the Teacher Eligibility Test. Education officials have affirmed that the state exam is conducted under strict security protocols — sealed question packets, CCTV surveillance and controlled distribution — but police action reveals significant vulnerabilities exploited by the accused. The police have signalled that more arrests may follow as the investigation expands. They are reviewing digital and financial records to trace the full network behind the leak. For now, TET candidates are being warned against any attempt to secure leaked papers, and authorities have assured that all guilty parties will face strict legal action.

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