The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has executed a significant operation in connection with the alleged irregularities and paper leak involving the NEET UG-2026 examination. In a series of coordinated actions, the premier investigative agency has arrested five suspects from various locations across the country. According to official reports, three individuals were apprehended from Jaipur, while one suspect each was taken into custody from Gurugram and Nashik. Alongside these arrests, the CBI conducted extensive search operations at multiple premises nationwide, resulting in the recovery of mobile phones, electronic devices, and several other crucial documents related to the case.
Registration of FIR and Legal Framework
The formal investigation into this matter commenced on May 12, 2026, following a written complaint from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education. The complaint highlighted serious allegations of malpractice and the leaking of question papers during the conduct of the NEET UG-2026 exam. Based on this, the CBI registered an FIR invoking various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including criminal conspiracy, cheating, and criminal breach of trust. On top of that, the agency has applied provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act 2024 to ensure a stringent legal process against those undermining the national examination system.
Nationwide Search Operations and Evidence Collection
To dismantle the network involved in the paper leak, the CBI launched a comprehensive search operation across several states. The raids were aimed at securing physical and digital evidence that could link the suspects to the organized crime of leaking examination materials. During these searches, the agency successfully seized a variety of incriminating materials.
Revelations by Accused Dinesh and Political Links
A major breakthrough in the investigation occurred during the interrogation of an accused named Dinesh. He reportedly confessed to selling 'guess papers' to at least 10 students in exchange for cash payments. Dinesh further revealed that he had procured these guess papers from an individual named Yash, based in Gurugram, while it has also come to light that Dinesh Biwal holds the position of District Secretary of the BJP Yuva Morcha in Jaipur Rural. In a related development, the CBI arrested two brothers from the Jamwa Ramgarh town of Jaipur district, whose involvement is currently being scrutinized as part of the broader conspiracy.
Coordination with Rajasthan SOG and Forensic Analysis
The CBI is working in close coordination with the Rajasthan Police's Special Operations Group (SOG), which had conducted the preliminary investigation into the paper leak. The agency is now employing advanced technical and forensic analysis to examine all aspects of the leak, including the digital footprint of the leaked materials. The CBI has emphasized that the investigation will remain impartial, comprehensive, and professional. As the probe continues, several other suspects are being questioned to identify the masterminds behind the racket. The agency remains committed to uncovering the full extent of the irregularities to maintain the integrity of public examinations.