CBI Intensifies Investigation into NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak, 13 Arrested

Ongoing Investigation into NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made significant progress in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case, recently apprehending a doctor from Latur and a faculty member from a Pune coaching center. This brings the total number of arrests to 13 as the investigation continues.

The CBI's efforts to unravel the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak are gaining momentum. With the latest arrests, concerns have been raised about the integrity of the educational system and the influence of the so-called 'coaching mafia.'

Among those arrested is Dr. Manoj Shirure from Latur, who is accused of facilitating the acquisition of Chemistry question papers from P.V. Kulkarni for three students, including the son of a coaching center owner.

Faculty Member from APMA Arrested

Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a Physics instructor at the Dr. Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA) in Pune, is the second individual arrested. He allegedly obtained leaked Physics question papers from Manisha Havaldar, another accused. The investigation aims to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy, with CBI conducting searches at 49 locations and seizing various incriminating materials, including documents, laptops, and mobile phones. A forensic analysis of these items is currently in progress.

CBI Acted on Ministry of Education's Complaint

The CBI initiated its investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 question paper leak on May 12, 2026, following a formal complaint from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Upon registering the case, specialized teams were formed to conduct searches nationwide, leading to the detention and questioning of multiple suspects. The investigation has revealed the sources of the leaked Chemistry, Biology, and Physics question papers that circulated before the examination.