CBI Intensifies Search for NEET Exam Paper Leak Suspects
Investigation into NEET Paper Leak
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has escalated its efforts to locate two additional associates of the alleged mastermind behind the NEET exam paper leak, P.V. Kulkarni. According to sources, Kulkarni, along with Manisha Waghmare and two other lecturers, played a significant role in the leak. The CBI is conducting raids in Pune and Latur to apprehend these lecturers. P.V. Kulkarni, identified as the main orchestrator of the NEET paper leak, was arrested on Friday, May 15, in Pune. Following his release on transit remand, he is expected to appear in CBI court today.
Background of P.V. Kulkarni
P.V. Kulkarni has been a chemistry teacher at Dayanand College for 28 years, serving as both a professor and later as the principal before retiring four years ago. During his tenure, he was associated with a Pune-based organization, Dynamic Entrance Examination Performance Enhancement and Research (DEEPer), which operates in various educational sectors. After retirement, he continued to teach chemistry as a freelance instructor at different coaching institutes.
Role in NEET Exam Preparation
Sources indicate that Kulkarni had been working as a chemistry expert on a contractual basis for the National Testing Agency for the past two years. He is reportedly one of the professors who prepared the chemistry question paper for NEET 2026, which raised suspicions among investigative agencies regarding his access to the exam materials. The second accused, Manisha, resides in Pune and was responsible for connecting students with Dhananjay Lokhande and P.V. Kulkarni.
Recent Developments
It has been reported that Kulkarni visited Pune in the last week of April before the NEET exam and conducted an online class under the name "Raj Coaching Classes." Investigative agencies claim that during this session, he provided students with mock questions that later appeared in the NEET 2026 exam. Kulkarni's eldest son is studying abroad, while there is no information available regarding his wife and younger son.