CBI Makes First Arrests in NEET-UG Paper Leak Case, Two Detained in Patna

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made the first arrests in the NEET-UG paper leak case, detaining two individuals from Patna. The arrests, which took place on Thursday, involve Manish Kumar and Ashutosh Kumar, who allegedly provided safe premises for aspirants before the examination. Here, the candidates were given leaked papers and answer keys, according to officials.

The CBI has registered six FIRs related to the NEET paper leak case. The NEET-UG, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is an important examination for admissions to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related courses in government and private institutions across India.

This year’s examination was held on May 5, 2024, at 4,750 centers in 571 cities, including 14 abroad, with over 23 lakh candidates appearing for the test.

The first FIR by the CBI was registered on Sunday, just a day after the Ministry of Education announced that it would hand over the investigation into the alleged irregularities in the exam’s conduct to the central agency. The demand for a CBI probe was raised by a section of protesting students.

The CBI’s swift action in arresting the two individuals from Patna marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation. The agency is expected to continue its probe to identify and apprehend other culprits involved in the paper leak scandal.