NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak: CBI Arrests Two More Suspects, Total Arrests Reach 13

New Developments in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Investigation

Pune: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended two additional suspects in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, as confirmed by officials on Wednesday.

With these arrests, the total number of individuals detained has now reached 13.

The newly arrested individuals are Dr. Manoj Shirure, a physician from Latur, and Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a physics instructor at the Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA) in Pune.

Officials revealed that Shirure was instrumental in assisting three students, including the son of a coaching center owner implicated in the case, in obtaining Chemistry questions from P.V. Kulkarni, who is identified as the mastermind behind the paper leak.

In addition, Shah received the leaked Physics questions for the NEET UG 2026 Exam from another arrested individual, Manisha Havaldar.

"The investigation is ongoing to uncover the full extent of the conspiracy and the network involved in this case. The CBI has conducted searches at 49 different locations and has confiscated numerous incriminating documents, laptops, and mobile devices. A thorough analysis of these items is currently underway," officials stated.

The CBI initiated this case on May 12 following a formal complaint from the Ministry of Education's Department of Higher Education regarding the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak.

"Immediately after the case was registered, specialized teams were established, and searches were executed across various locations nationwide, leading to the apprehension and questioning of several suspects," officials added.

The arrested individuals are from various locations, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur, and Ahliyanagar.

"The investigation continues with multiple specialized teams collaborating, revealing the actual sources of the leaked Chemistry, Biology, and Physics questions that were disseminated prior to the examination," the CBI confirmed.

The agency reiterated its dedication to conducting a "thorough, unbiased, and professional investigation into this matter."

Ongoing investigations are expected to yield further updates.