NEET Paper Leak Investigation: CBI Arrests Pune Lecturers

The NEET paper leak investigation has intensified after the CBI arrested Pune-based lecturers accused of leaking questions before the NEET-UG 2026 examination. The case has raised serious concerns about the security and credibility of competitive exams in India.

The controversy started after reports suggested that several questions in the actual exam matched questions shared during private coaching sessions before the test. Soon after, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) launched a nationwide probe.

CBI Arrests Pune Lecturers

The CBI arrested biology lecturer Manisha Gurunath Mandhare in connection with the case. According to investigators, the National Testing Agency (NTA) appointed her as an expert for the examination process this year.

Officials claim she had access to botany and zoology question papers before the exam. During April 2026, she allegedly conducted special coaching sessions at her residence in Pune.

Investigators say students wrote down important questions and marked answers in their textbooks during those sessions. Many of those questions reportedly appeared in the final NEET examination held on May 3.

Earlier, the CBI also arrested Pune-based chemistry lecturer P.V. Kulkarni. Officials accuse him of leaking chemistry questions in a similar manner.

Student Protests Grow Across India

According to the investigation, the accused used local contacts to connect with students. One of the accused in the case is a Pune-based beauty salon owner who allegedly helped organise students for the coaching sessions.

The investigation has now expanded beyond Pune. Reports suggest the trail has reached districts such as Latur and Nanded in Maharashtra.

In one case, a parent allegedly paid ₹5 lakh to buy the leaked paper for his daughter. The CBI questioned the individual and asked him to appear before the agency again for further investigation.

New Developments in the Case

The NEET paper leak investigation has triggered protests in several parts of the country. Students and parents have expressed frustration over the cancellation of the examination.

For many students, NEET is not just an entrance test. It represents years of preparation, pressure, and sacrifice. The controversy has left many aspirants uncertain about their future.

The case has also increased scrutiny on the National Testing Agency. Over the past few years, several concerns related to exam management and technical issues have sparked public debate.

Questions Over NTA’s Credibility

So far, the CBI has arrested nine people in connection with the case. Investigators have conducted searches at multiple locations across India.

Officials seized laptops, mobile phones, notebooks, and financial records during the raids. The agency continues to investigate whether more individuals were involved in leaking or distributing the paper.

Meanwhile, the Centre has appointed new Joint Secretaries and Joint Directors in the NTA as the investigation moves forward.

The NEET paper leak investigation has now become more than just an exam controversy. For lakhs of students and parents across India, it has become a question of trust in the education system itself.