CBI arrests 5 accused in NEET paper leak row (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into the alleged NEET UG-2026 paper leak case by arresting five accused persons and conducting searches at several locations across the country.
The agency said the arrests and raids are part of an ongoing probe into alleged irregularities linked to the conduct of the NEET UG-2026 examination.
The CBI had registered the case on May 12 following a written complaint received from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education.
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According to officials, the FIR includes charges related to criminal conspiracy, cheating, criminal breach of trust and other offences under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
Investigators are examining whether confidential examination-related documents were illegally circulated before the NEET UG-2026 examination was conducted.
The CBI confirmed that five accused have been arrested so far from multiple locations across India.
The arrested individuals have been identified as:
Officials said three of the accused were arrested from Jaipur, while one each was apprehended from Gurugram and Nashik.
Several other suspects are also being questioned as the investigation progresses.
The agency has carried out searches at multiple premises connected to the accused and suspects involved in the case.
During the searches, investigators reportedly seized several electronic devices, including mobile phones, along with documents and other materials considered important for the investigation.
NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy escalates as CBI files FIR over exam irregularities
The CBI said technical and forensic analysis of the seized evidence is currently underway to trace the source and circulation of the alleged leaked material.
The agency is also working closely with the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Rajasthan Police, which had earlier conducted a preliminary enquiry into the matter.
Officials said further searches, arrests and forensic examinations are likely as new leads continue to emerge during the investigation.
The CBI has stated that it remains committed to conducting a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the alleged NEET UG-2026 examination irregularities.
