The Odisha Government on Friday, 31 July 2026 denied that a question paper leak occurred during the recently held Postgraduate (PG) Medical examination conducted by the Odisha University of Health Sciences (OUHS), asserting instead that photographs of the question paper were circulated mid-examination due to lapses in exam management. The incident has triggered multiple parallel investigations, an FIR, and disciplinary proceedings against at least two medical colleges.

What the Government Said

In an official statement, the state government said: 'Preliminary investigation makes it clear that this incident is not a question paper leak. It has been revealed that during the conduct of the examination, due to a lapse in exam management, someone took photos of the questions from the question paper and sent them via phone.'

The distinction drawn by the government — between a systemic leak and an in-hall breach — is significant. It places culpability on on-ground exam supervisors rather than on the paper-setting or distribution chain, though critics may argue the practical consequence for students is identical.

High-Level Committee Constituted

The Health and Family Welfare Department has constituted a three-member high-level committee to investigate all aspects of the incident, including possible lapses by OUHS in conducting the examination at MKCG Medical College in Berhampur. The committee is headed by Additional Secretary Bijay Kumar Dash, with Special Secretary Bijay Kumar Mishra and Joint DMET Anil Kumar Sahu as members. It was formally constituted through an official order dated 31 July 2026.

Separately, OUHS has issued a notice to MKCG Medical College and Hospital seeking an explanation for the alleged management lapses and has directed the institution to submit a detailed inquiry report within two days of receiving the notice. MKCG, Berhampur has also constituted its own inquiry committee, headed by the Dean and Principal of the institution, to initiate disciplinary action against those found responsible.

FIR Registered, Two Colleges Named

An FIR has been registered at the Capital Police Station in Bhubaneswar to investigate the electronic transmission and circulation of the question paper contents through WhatsApp groups. The complaint was lodged by the Controller of Examinations, OUHS. The FIR has been filed against MKCG Medical College and a private medical college in connection with the incident.

This is a notable escalation — moving the matter from administrative inquiry to criminal investigation signals that authorities are treating the WhatsApp circulation as a potentially cognisable offence, regardless of how the breach originated.

What Happens Next

The Odisha Government has stated that stringent action will be taken against those found responsible once inquiry reports are received. Authorities have assured that all necessary legal and disciplinary measures will follow. The outcome of the investigations will likely determine whether the examination itself needs to be re-conducted — a question that remains unanswered and will be closely watched by the PG medical aspirants affected.