The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a doctor from Latur and a faculty member from a coaching centre in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 examination paper leak, raising the total number of individuals apprehended in the case to 13.
Details of the Arrests
The arrested medical professional has been identified as Dr. Manoj Shirure. Investigators allege that Dr. Shirure played a crucial role in facilitating leaked Chemistry questions for three students, one of whom is the son of a coaching centre owner. According to the CBI, Dr. Shirure obtained these questions from another accused, P.V. Kulkarni.
The second individual arrested is Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a physics faculty member at the Dr. Abhang Prabhu Medical Academy (APMA), a prominent coaching institute in Pune. Shah reportedly acquired leaked Physics questions for the high-stakes medical entrance exam from Manisha Havaldar, who is already in custody.
Investigation and Crackdown
The federal agency registered the case on May 12, 2026, following a written complaint from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education. Immediately after taking over the investigation, the CBI formed specialized teams and launched a massive nationwide crackdown. Search operations have been conducted across 49 locations so far, resulting in the seizure of laptops, mobile phones, and numerous incriminating documents.
The investigation spans multiple cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur, and Ahilyanagar. Authorities have successfully traced the actual source of the leaked Physics, Chemistry, and Biology questions that were circulated prior to the exam. CBI officials stated that multiple special teams are working in tandem to unearth the complete chain of conspiracy. A detailed forensic analysis of all seized digital evidence is currently underway to ensure a comprehensive and professional investigation.
The CBI has emphasized its commitment to conducting a thorough probe, with the aim of identifying all individuals involved in the leak and preventing such incidents in the future.
