The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has secured an extension of custody for Manisha Hawaldar, a key accused in the NEET-UG paper leak case. Meanwhile, another individual arrested in connection with the matter has been remanded to judicial custody. The developments took place on Thursday as the CBI presented the accused before a Delhi court.
Court Proceedings
On May 30, 2026, the Rouse Avenue Court in Delhi heard the CBI's plea seeking an extension of custody for Manisha Hawaldar and Manisha Mandhare. The court granted the CBI's request, extending Hawaldar's custody for further interrogation. The other accused, whose identity has not been disclosed, was sent to judicial custody.
CBI's Investigation
The CBI has so far arrested 13 individuals in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak scandal. The agency is probing the conspiracy behind the leak, which allegedly compromised the integrity of the medical entrance examination. Investigators are examining the roles of the accused, including how the question paper was accessed and distributed.
Earlier, the CBI had arrested Hawaldar and Mandhare from different locations. The agency believes that the accused were part of a larger network involved in the leak. The extension of custody will allow the CBI to confront the accused with other evidence and possibly uncover more links.
Background of the Case
The NEET-UG paper leak came to light earlier this year, causing widespread outrage among students and parents. The National Testing Agency (NTA) had reported irregularities, prompting the CBI to take over the investigation. The agency has been conducting raids and interrogations across multiple states.
In a related development, the CBI also brought Manisha Mandhare and Manisha Sanjay Hawaldar to the Rouse Avenue Court, as seen in visuals shared by news agency ANI. The court proceedings were held amid tight security.
Next Steps
The CBI is expected to file a detailed status report on the investigation in the coming weeks. The agency may also seek further custody of other accused as the probe progresses. The case has raised questions about the security measures of the examination system, and authorities have promised strict action against those involved.
As of now, the investigation continues, with the CBI focusing on identifying the masterminds behind the leak. The extended custody of Hawaldar is seen as a crucial step in unraveling the entire conspiracy.
