NEET UG Result 2024 Row: Who is Sikandar Yadvendu, Bihar-Based Alleged Scam Mastermind?

The NEET question paper leak case has led to the arrest of Sikandar Yadvendu, identified as the primary suspect by the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of the Bihar Police.

"Sikandar Yadvendu is a close relative of Tejashwi Yadav's PS Pritam Kumar. An NHAI guest house was booked for Sikandar's sister Reena Yadav and son Anurag Yadav to stay on May 4. A phone number and 'Mantri Ji' were mentioned in the diary of the NHAI guest house. The investigating agency is making efforts to know the identity of this Mantri Ji," said Vijay Kumar Sinha, Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar.

Yadvendu, a junior engineer working with the municipal committee of Danapur, is alleged to have provided advance copies of the NEET 2024 question paper to several candidates, including his brother-in-law's son. The NEET 2024 examination was conducted on May 5, and the question paper was reportedly leaked the previous day, on May 4.

The EOU's investigation uncovered substantial evidence confirming the leak, including the discovery of an OMR sheet at the NHAI guest house, where Reena Yadav was apprehended on May 5.

The guest house register listed Anurag, Reena Yadav's son, with a note indicating "Mantri Ji" beside his name, suggesting possible involvement or influence from a higher authority.

Sikandar Yadvendu, originally from Samastipur, has a history of involvement in criminal activities. Before becoming a junior engineer in 2012, he worked as a contractor in Ranchi. He was previously implicated in a significant LED scam worth Rs 3 crore and served a jail sentence for his role in that case.

The investigation continues as authorities probe further into the extent of the leak and other potential individuals involved.