CBI Expands Investigation into NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak in Maharashtra
CBI Expands NEET Paper Leak Probe To Maharashtra's Nanded, Questions Family Linked To Accused
News 18
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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has broadened its investigation into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak to Nanded district, Maharashtra, following links to accused Shubham Khairnar. The agency is questioning a family believed to have purchased leaked exam materials, while also seeking custody of another accused, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, for further inquiry into the alleged examination fraud.
- 01The CBI is investigating links between accused Shubham Khairnar and a family in Nanded, Maharashtra, who allegedly bought leaked exam materials.
- 02Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, an expert with the National Testing Agency (NTA), is under scrutiny for allegedly receiving money from students.
- 03The CBI has arrested nine individuals in connection with the case, with ongoing searches yielding laptops and incriminating documents.
- 04Investigators allege that Mandhare conducted special coaching sessions where questions matched those on the NEET-UG exam.
- 05The NEET-UG 2026 exam was cancelled after allegations of a paper leak surfaced, affecting nearly 23 lakh registered candidates.
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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has expanded its probe into the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case to Nanded district, Maharashtra. This follows the arrest of Shubham Khairnar in Nashik, who is linked to a family in Nanded suspected of purchasing leaked exam materials. The CBI has been questioning family members in Nanded’s Vidyut Nagar area, while another team searched Khairnar's Pune office to uncover a broader network involved in the leak. The agency is also seeking 14 days of custody for Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, a member of the National Testing Agency (NTA), who allegedly received payments from students. The investigation has led to nine arrests across various locations, including Delhi and Jaipur. Reports suggest Mandhare conducted special coaching sessions where questions from the NEET-UG exam were discussed, with many of these questions appearing in the actual exam. The NEET-UG 2026 examination, which took place on May 3, was cancelled amid these allegations, impacting approximately 23 lakh candidates registered to take the test.
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The investigation into the NEET-UG paper leak could affect students' preparation and future opportunities in medical education.
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