Investigation – CBI Arrests Maharashtra Coaching Operator in NEET 2026 Leak Case
Investigation The Central Bureau of Investigation has intensified its probe into the alleged NEET UG 2026 question paper leak, leading to another arrest linked to the case.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar, the operator of Renukai Chemistry Classes in Maharashtra’s Latur, as part of its ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the NEET UG 2026 examination.
According to officials associated with the inquiry, the arrest followed searches carried out by the agency on Sunday, during which investigators reportedly recovered a leaked copy of the medical entrance examination paper from Motegaonkar’s mobile phone. The development is being viewed as a significant step in the expanding investigation into the paper leak network.
Agency Claims Organised Network Behind Leak
CBI officials have alleged that Motegaonkar was actively associated with a larger organised group involved in obtaining and distributing the confidential examination material before the test was conducted. Investigators believe the network operated in coordination with multiple individuals across different locations.
The agency has claimed that Motegaonkar, along with other accused persons already under scrutiny, allegedly received access to the NEET UG 2026 question paper and answer keys ahead of the examination held on April 23, 2026. Officials suspect the material was circulated among selected candidates and intermediaries before the exam date.
Digital Evidence Under Examination
Sources connected to the investigation stated that digital evidence recovered during the searches is currently being examined by forensic experts. Investigators are reportedly analysing communication records, electronic devices, and financial transactions to establish the full extent of the alleged operation.
The CBI is also examining whether coaching institutes or educational facilitators played a wider role in the circulation of the leaked paper. Officials have not yet disclosed how many candidates may have accessed the leaked material or whether additional arrests are expected in the coming days.
Focus on Examination Integrity
The NEET UG examination is one of the country’s most competitive medical entrance tests, attracting lakhs of candidates every year for admissions into undergraduate medical courses. Allegations of paper leaks and unfair practices have raised concerns among students and parents regarding the credibility and transparency of the examination process.
Authorities have reiterated that strict action will be taken against all individuals found involved in compromising the integrity of the examination system. The CBI has continued raids and questioning in multiple states as part of its broader investigation into the matter.
Further Investigation Continues
Officials said the investigation remains active and additional evidence is being collected to determine the complete chain of events behind the leak. The agency is expected to question more suspects and examine possible links between accused individuals and coaching centres connected to the case.
The arrest of the Latur-based coaching operator marks another major development in the NEET UG 2026 controversy, which has already drawn nationwide attention. Investigators are now focusing on identifying how the confidential exam material was accessed before the examination and how widely it may have been distributed.