CBI Arrests Pune Biology Lecturer In NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Linked To NTA Panel
Manisha Mandhare
A major breakthrough has emerged in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak investigation after the CBI arrested a Pune-based biology lecturer allegedly linked to the National Testing Agency’s confidential paper-setting process.
May 16, 2026 | New Delhi
The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Pune-based biology lecturer Manisha Gurunath Mandhare in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case, intensifying the nationwide probe into one of India’s biggest examination scandals in recent years. Investigators claim Mandhare was associated with the National Testing Agency’s confidential paper-setting process and allegedly had direct access to Botany and Zoology question papers before the examination conducted on May 3.
According to reports, the accused was taken into custody in Delhi after extensive questioning by the CBI. Officials allege that during April 2026, select NEET aspirants were mobilised through a Pune-based network and attended special coaching sessions where questions similar to the final examination paper were allegedly discussed in advance. Investigators claim several students were asked to note down questions and mark answers in textbooks during these sessions.
The arrest comes days after another accused linked to the examination leak racket was detained, with agencies now suspecting a wider interstate network operating between Pune, Delhi, Rajasthan and other regions. The CBI has reportedly conducted searches at multiple locations across the country and seized laptops, mobile phones, financial records and digital evidence for forensic analysis.
The NEET-UG 2026 controversy erupted after allegations surfaced that a “guess paper” circulating among students closely matched the actual examination. The issue triggered nationwide protests, demands for accountability and growing criticism of examination security systems. Authorities are now investigating whether insiders connected to the examination process helped leak confidential material.
The scandal has raised serious concerns about the integrity of India’s highly competitive medical entrance examination system, which impacts lakhs of aspiring doctors every year. Officials say further arrests and questioning are likely as investigators continue tracing financial transactions and communication records connected to the alleged leak network.
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