NEET paper leak: CBI arrests two more accused, 13 detained so far

NEW DELHI: A Latur-based doctor and a coaching centre faculty member have been arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper leak case, bringing the total number of individuals apprehended to 13.The arrested medical professional has been identified as Dr. Manoj Shirure, who allegedly played a key role in facilitating leaked Chemistry questions for three students, including the son of a coaching centre owner.According to investigators, Dr. Shirure secured these questions through another accused in the case, P.V. Kulkarni.The second individual, Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, works as a physics faculty member at the Dr. Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA), a prominent coaching institute in Pune. Shah reportedly obtained leaked Physics questions for the high-stakes medical entrance exam from Manisha Havaldar, who is already in custody.The federal agency registered the case on May 12, 2026, following a written complaint from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education.Immediately after taking over the case, the CBI formed specialized teams and launched a massive nationwide crackdown. Massive search operations have been conducted across 49 locations so far, resulting in the seizure of laptops, mobile phones, and numerous incriminating documents.The investigation, which spans multiple cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur, and Ahilyanagar, has successfully traced the actual source of the leaked Physics, Chemistry, and Biology questions that were circulated prior to the exam. CBI officials stated that multiple special teams are working in tandem to unearth the complete chain of conspiracy, and a detailed forensic analysis of all seized digital evidence is currently underway to ensure a comprehensive and professional investigation.