NEET-UG paper leak probe widens as CBI arrests Maharashtra doctor, Pune faculty member

The probe into the alleged NEET-UG 2026 question paper leak has widened, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) apprehending two more individuals suspected of being part of the network behind the leak and distribution of exam content.

The newly arrested individuals are Dr Manoj Shirure from Maharashtra’s Latur and Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a Physics instructor associated with Pune-based Dr Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA).

With these fresh arrests, the number of people held in the case has now increased to 13.

According to investigators, Shirure is suspected of helping three candidates gain access to leaked Chemistry questions, including the son of a coaching institute owner already named in the case.

Officials believe the material was sourced from another accused, PV Kulkarni.

Meanwhile, Shah is accused of receiving leaked Physics questions from another arrested individual, Manisha Havaldar, and allegedly becoming part of the chain through which the exam material was circulated.

The agency is continuing its investigation to establish how the paper was leaked and identify everyone involved in the network.

As part of the ongoing operation, CBI teams have carried out searches at 49 locations across India and seized electronic devices and documents, including laptops and mobile phones.

Authorities are conducting forensic examinations of the collected material. The case was registered on May 12, 2026, after the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education submitted a complaint regarding the suspected leak.

Those arrested so far are from multiple cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur and Ahilyanagar.

Investigators have reportedly tracked the route through which leaked questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology were allegedly circulated before the examination.