NEET Scam – CBI Expands Probe Into Alleged Multi-State Paper Leak Network
NEET Scam – The investigation into the alleged NEET paper leak has widened significantly, with central agencies now examining links that go beyond the current examination cycle. Officials have uncovered fresh details suggesting that members of the family connected to one of the main accused had also obtained medical admissions through NEET in the previous year. Authorities in Rajasthan confirmed that the 2025 examination process is also being reviewed as part of the ongoing inquiry.
CBI Takes Main Accused to Delhi for Further Interrogation
The Central Bureau of Investigation on Thursday secured transit remand for five key accused in the case and shifted them to Delhi for detailed questioning. Those taken into custody include Nashik resident Shubham Khairnar, BJP worker Dinesh Binwal, his brother Mangilal, Mangilal’s son Vikas, and Haryana-based Yash Yadav.
Investigators believe the accused may have operated a wider network linked to the illegal circulation of examination papers across different states. The agency is now focusing on financial transactions, communication records, and possible links between coaching centres and candidates connected to the case.
Family Members Under Investigation
According to officials familiar with the probe, three daughters from the families of Dinesh Binwal and Mangilal — identified as Palak, Sonia, and Prakriti — had successfully cleared the NEET examination last year and later secured medical admissions. Their admissions are now being verified as part of the investigation.
The latest findings have intensified scrutiny around previous examination cycles, with investigators trying to determine whether the alleged malpractice had been active for more than one year. Authorities are also examining whether additional candidates may have benefited from leaked question papers or other unfair means.
Coaching Institute Link Emerges
The investigation has also revealed a connection between two of the accused through a coaching institute in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, a major hub for competitive exam preparation. Officials said Vikas and Yash Yadav reportedly studied together at the same institute.
During questioning, investigators learned that Yash allegedly informed Vikas and Mangilal around the Diwali period last year that he could arrange access to the NEET question paper before the examination. This information became a crucial lead in tracing the alleged network involved in the leak.
Printing and Distribution Network Across States
CBI officials suspect that multiple copies of the examination paper were printed at a press located in Nashik before being circulated to different regions. The agency is now trying to identify the full chain involved in printing, transportation, and distribution of the confidential material.
As part of the Maharashtra operation, two additional arrests were made. The accused were identified as Dhananjay Lokhanda from Ahilyanagar and Manisha Waghmare from Pune. Investigators are probing their alleged role in handling funds and coordinating contacts linked to the examination racket.
Officials disclosed that Manisha Waghmare had reportedly received money transfers through 21 separate bank accounts shortly before the NEET examination conducted on May 3. Financial records are now being analysed to trace the movement of funds and identify other individuals connected to the operation.
Student Death Raises Concern Over Exam Pressure
Amid the ongoing controversy, a tragic incident was reported from Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri district, where a 21-year-old NEET aspirant allegedly died by suicide following the cancellation of the examination. The incident has once again highlighted the intense emotional pressure faced by students preparing for highly competitive entrance tests.
Authorities continue to investigate the larger conspiracy while education experts and parents demand stronger safeguards to ensure transparency and fairness in national-level examinations.