Fresh details have emerged in the NEET paper leak case after investigators recovered alleged WhatsApp conversations linked to arrested Nashik-based Ayurvedic doctor Shubham Khairnar.

Probe agencies claim the chats reveal promises made to aspirants of securing 500 to 600 marks in the medical entrance examination in exchange for huge sums of money.

According to investigators, Khairnar was allegedly part of a larger organised network involved in leaking and distributing the NEET question paper.

Officials suspect the racket extended across multiple cities, and efforts are now underway to identify the alleged kingpin behind the operation.

Sources said Khairnar came into contact with Pune resident Yash Yadav in April this year.

During their conversations, Khairnar allegedly claimed that he had access to a copy of the NEET question paper. Yadav was reportedly tasked with distributing the leaked questions to candidates.

Investigators further claimed that the financial deal related to the distribution of the paper was finalised on April 29.

After obtaining the question paper, Khairnar and his associates allegedly approached several NEET aspirants and assured them of scores ranging between 500 and 600 marks.

Officials alleged that lakhs of rupees were collected from students and their families on the promise of guaranteed scores.

The accused also allegedly lured aspirants with assurances of securing admission in reputed medical colleges.

The recovery of the WhatsApp messages has strengthened suspicions that the accused were operating as part of a coordinated examination fraud network.

The investigation into the money trail and other possible links in the racket is currently underway.