CBI Detains Key Suspect In NEET-UG Paper Leak Scandal

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) apprehended Rakesh Ranjan, also known as Rocky, from Dhanbad in Jharkhand. He is one of the main suspects in the NEET-UG paper leak scandal. Rocky was presented in a CBI court and has been remanded to the agency's custody for ten days.

Rocky, who is reportedly related to the mastermind Sanjeev Mukhia, was tracked using advanced technology. The police conducted searches at four locations in Patna and West Bengal linked to him. The CBI had been monitoring him since they took over the case.

NEET-UG Paper Leak Case

Earlier this week, the CBI searched 15 locations in Bihar and Jharkhand to gather evidence. They had previously arrested the principal and vice principal of Oasis School in Hazaribagh, along with two others. These individuals allegedly provided premises for NEET candidates where burnt question papers were discovered by Bihar Police.

The Supreme Court postponed the hearing on the NEET-UG 2024 case because some parties hadn't received the latest affidavits from the Centre and National Testing Agency (NTA). The new hearing date is set for July 18, delaying decisions on petitions requesting a re-conduct of NEET-UG 2024 due to alleged paper leaks and other misconduct.

CBI's Ongoing Investigation

The CBI has filed six FIRs related to irregularities in the medical entrance exam. One FIR in Bihar addresses paper leaks, while others from Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra involve candidate impersonation and cheating cases. The investigation began based on a reference from the Union Education Ministry to thoroughly probe these exam irregularities.

This year's NEET-UG exam took place on May 5 across 4,750 centres in 571 cities, including 14 abroad. Over 23 lakh candidates appeared for it. Conducted by NTA, NEET-UG is used for admissions to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and related courses in both government and private institutions.

Rocky's attempt to evade authorities ended when he was arrested on Thursday morning. Officials informed PTI about his capture. The CBI continues its efforts to uncover all aspects of this scandal.

In connection with this case, searches were carried out at various locations linked to Rocky. Advanced technology played a crucial role in tracing him back to his hideout.