BPSC Paper Leak Racket: Key Accused Nabbed in Patna by Economic Offences Unit
In a significant breakthrough, the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of the Bihar Police has apprehended Praveen Kumar Sinha, a pivotal accused in the notorious Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) Teacher Recruitment Examination (TRE-3) paper leak scandal. The arrest marks a crucial step in dismantling the extensive examination fraud network that has plagued the state's competitive recruitment processes.
Arrest Operation in Patna
Sinha, a resident of Lakhisarai district, was captured from the Karbigahiya locality in Patna on March 22 following a meticulously planned operation. Acting on confidential intelligence, a specialized raiding team from the EOU conducted the arrest after receiving information that Sinha, also known by the alias Dablu, was traveling to the state capital. This operation underscores the EOU's proactive approach in tackling organized crime syndicates involved in academic dishonesty.
Connection to Mastermind Sanjeev Mukhia
Investigations reveal that Praveen Sinha is a close associate and active member of the gang led by Sanjeev Mukhia, the alleged mastermind behind the paper leak racket. According to EOU officials, Sinha has been affiliated with the Mukhia gang since approximately 2015-16, actively participating in their illicit activities aimed at compromising competitive examinations across Bihar.
Role in TRE-3 Paper Leak
During interrogation, Sinha confessed to his involvement in the TRE-3.0 examination paper leak. The gang had orchestrated a plan to leak the question paper and transport candidates to Hazaribagh ahead of the test. Sinha's responsibilities included:
- Assisting in the reception and coordination of candidates at the designated location.
- Liaising with other gang members to ensure the smooth execution of the leak operation.
- Evading authorities during a police raid at a Hazaribagh hotel just one day prior to the examination, after which he remained in hiding to avoid capture.
EOU's Ongoing Crackdown
Additional Director General of the EOU, Nayyar Hasnain Khan, provided insights into the broader investigation. "A total of 293 accused, including the gang kingpin Sanjeev Mukhia, have been charge-sheeted in this case to date," Khan stated. "Our efforts are relentless as we continue to pursue other absconding individuals linked to this racket."
The EOU is maintaining continuous surveillance on gangs involved in paper leak operations, demonstrating a firm commitment to ensuring the integrity and fairness of all state-conducted examinations. This arrest is part of a larger strategy to curb examination malpractices and restore public trust in Bihar's recruitment systems.
Praveen Sinha, hailing from Konipar village under the Manikpur police station in Lakhisarai district, is currently under custody and facing rigorous questioning to uncover further details about the gang's modus operandi and potential accomplices. The EOU's actions highlight the ongoing battle against corruption in educational and recruitment sectors, aiming to safeguard the future of countless aspirants.
