NEET Paper Leak: Two Masterminds Arrested, Third Major Arrest Expected Soon

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has made significant breakthroughs in the ongoing NEET-UG paper leak case, leading to the arrest of two primary masterminds. The investigation, which has been gaining momentum over the past few weeks, reveals a deeply entrenched syndicate involving academic professionals who were entrusted with the integrity of the examination process, while the two individuals arrested have been identified as PV Kulkarni, a retired professor of Chemistry, and Manisha Gurunath, a lecturer in Botany. Their involvement has sent shockwaves through the academic community, especially given their official roles within the examination framework.

The Modus Operandi of the Syndicate

The investigation has uncovered a sophisticated operation that functioned under the guise of educational assistance. Both PV Kulkarni and Manisha Gurunath were reportedly appointed by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as experts for the NEET-UG 2026 examination process. Instead of upholding the standards of the exam, they allegedly used their positions to facilitate the paper leak. The syndicate was coordinated through a woman named Manisha Waghmare, based in Pune. Waghmare acted as the primary link, identifying and recruiting students from wealthy backgrounds who were willing to pay exorbitant amounts for access to the leaked materials.

Once the students were recruited, the masterminds organized special classes to disseminate the leaked information. One set of special classes was conducted by PV Kulkarni for Chemistry, while another was led by Manisha Gurunath for Botany. During these sessions, the leaked questions and their corresponding answers were provided to the students. In a particularly calculated move, Kulkarni reportedly instructed students to note down the questions and answers in their handbooks to avoid leaving a digital trail or easily detectable evidence. This method ensured that the students had the material memorized or recorded in a way that appeared like regular study notes.

Legal Proceedings and Future Arrests

Following their arrest, the CBI presented both Manisha Waghmare and PV Kulkarni before the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi, while the central agency has requested a 14 day remand for the accused to conduct further interrogation and uncover the full extent of the network. The CBI argued that the custody of the accused is essential to trace the money trail and identify other potential collaborators within the NTA panel of experts. The court is currently reviewing the evidence presented by the agency, including the seizure of Manisha Waghmare bank accounts, which are believed to contain proceeds from the illegal activity.

Sources within the CBI indicate that a third major arrest is imminent. Manisha Waghmare has emerged as a crucial link in the case, and her interrogation has provided the agency with vital leads. The investigation suggests that the syndicate roots may extend further into the panels responsible for preparing the question papers. As the CBI continues to piece together the evidence, more individuals associated with the paper-setting process are under the scanner. The agency is committed to dismantling the entire syndicate to ensure the sanctity of future competitive examinations and to provide justice to the millions of students who appear for these exams with honesty.