The investigation into the alleged NEET UG 2026 paper leak case has intensified further as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) made additional arrests, bringing the total number of accused individuals in custody to 13. The case has raised serious concerns over the integrity of one of India’s most important medical entrance examinations.

The latest arrests include a doctor from Latur and a coaching institute faculty member from Pune, both allegedly involved in facilitating the leak and distribution of question papers.

CBI Arrests Two More Accused in NEET UG Case

According to officials, the CBI has arrested:

• A Latur-based doctor identified as Dr Manoj Shirure
• A Pune-based physics teacher Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, associated with a coaching institute

Investigators allege that Dr Shirure played a role in helping students access leaked chemistry questions through intermediaries. One of the beneficiaries is said to include students connected to a coaching centre founder.

The second accused, a coaching faculty member, is alleged to have received leaked physics questions from another accused already in custody.

Expanding Network Under Investigation

The CBI stated that the investigation is ongoing to uncover the full conspiracy and chain of communication behind the paper leak. Officials confirmed:

• Searches conducted at 49 locations across India
• Seizure of mobile phones, laptops, and documents
• Digital forensic analysis currently underway

The agency believes the leak may involve a coordinated network spanning multiple states, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur, and Ahilyanagar.

Total Arrests Rise to 13

With the latest arrests, the total number of individuals arrested in the case has reached 13. The accused are reportedly linked to various roles, including:

• Question paper circulation
• Coaching network involvement
• Student facilitation
• Intermediary distribution chains

The widening scope of arrests indicates a complex and organised system behind the alleged malpractice.

Background of NEET UG 2026 Controversy

The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2026 was conducted on May 3 across 551 cities in India and 14 international centres. However, allegations of a paper leak surfaced shortly after the exam.

Following initial reports of irregularities, the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the examination on May 12. The cancellation affected nearly 23 lakh registered candidates, making it one of the largest exam disruptions in recent years.

A re-examination has now been scheduled for June 21.

Government Orders CBI Investigation

Following the allegations, the government directed the Central Bureau of Investigation to conduct a comprehensive probe into the irregularities. The CBI registered a formal case based on a complaint from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education.

The agency is now examining both digital and financial trails to identify the full extent of the alleged leak.

Impact on Students and Examination System

The cancellation and ongoing investigation have caused widespread concern among students and parents across the country. NEET, being the gateway to medical education in India, carries high stakes for lakhs of aspirants.

Authorities are now under pressure to ensure:

• Transparent conduct of the re-examination
• Stronger security mechanisms
• Prevention of future leaks

Conclusion

The NEET UG 2026 paper leak investigation continues to expand as the CBI intensifies its probe, leading to fresh arrests including a doctor and a coaching teacher. With the total number of accused now at 13, the case highlights serious vulnerabilities in competitive examination systems.

As the investigation progresses and the re-examination date approaches, the focus remains on restoring trust in the examination process and ensuring accountability at all levels.

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