A Delhi court on Monday extended the judicial custody of 13 individuals arrested in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak case until July 24. The accused were produced before Additional Sessions Judge at the Rouse Avenue Court via video conferencing from Tihar Jail. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) sought the extension, citing the need for further investigation.
Details of the Case
The 13 accused include Sandeep, Mukesh Kumar, Raju Singh, Amit Anand, Abhishek Kumar, Manish Kumar, Ashutosh, Shiv Kumar, Bipin Kumar, Anurag, Aditya, Akash, and Pankaj. They were arrested on June 28 and subsequently remanded to judicial custody. The CBI told the court that the probe is ongoing and that custodial interrogation of some accused may be required later. The court granted the extension, noting that the investigation is at a crucial stage.
Investigation Progress
The CBI has registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating, criminal conspiracy, and relevant provisions of the IT Act. The agency has formed multiple teams to track down the masterminds and recover leaked question papers. Officials stated that the leak originated in Bihar and spread to other states, affecting the sanctity of the medical entrance exam. The CBI has also issued notices to several coaching centers and individuals suspected of involvement.
According to sources, the CBI has gathered digital evidence, including call detail records and chat logs, linking the accused to the leak. The agency is also examining the role of a former Bihar Police officer who is currently absconding. The NEET-UG exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), was held on June 5, and the results were declared in July. However, allegations of paper leaks surfaced earlier, prompting the CBI to take over the investigation from state police.
Impact on Students
The paper leak has caused widespread outrage among students and parents, who demand a fresh exam. The Supreme Court is also hearing petitions related to the leak. The CBI has assured the court that it will complete the investigation expeditiously. The extended custody of the 13 accused indicates that the probe is far from over, and more arrests are likely.
