New Delhi, May 14:
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested five people and carried out searches across multiple locations in connection with the NEET UG paper leak case, as nationwide protests intensified over the cancellation of the exam and demands grew for accountability from authorities, including Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The controversy erupted after the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination held on May 3, following allegations of a question paper leak. The decision has impacted over 22 lakh medical aspirants across India and triggered widespread anger among students, parents, and political groups.
In response to the leak, the CBI launched a large-scale investigation, taking over from state police units, including Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group (SOG).
The agency arrested Mangilal Biwal, Vikas Biwal, Dinesh Biwal from Jaipur, Yash Yadav from Gurugram, and Shubham Khairnar from Nashik. Several other suspects are being questioned and may face arrest.
Officials confirmed that digital devices such as mobile phones and laptops were seized during raids and will undergo forensic analysis to trace how the leaked material was circulated.
Investigators believe the leak involved a “guess paper” containing questions similar to those in the exam.
According to Rajasthan SOG findings, the material originated with a medical student from Sikar district studying in Kerala, who received it from a friend and shared it further through acquaintances and hostel networks.
The document reportedly spread across coaching circles in Rajasthan, reaching students in Jaipur and nearby areas before the exam date.
Officials suspect the leak may have originated in Nashik, with the material passing through multiple intermediaries, including a Gurugram-based link.