The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the NEET UG 2026 paper leak case with the arrest of another key accused linked to the Biology question paper breach.
The arrested individual, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, is alleged to have played a central role in leaking and circulating exam content ahead of the medical entrance test.
The development adds another layer to an already widening investigation into irregularities surrounding one of India’s most competitive entrance examinations. Authorities have been tracking a multi-state network allegedly involved in accessing and distributing confidential exam material.
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Arrest of the second alleged mastermind
Mandhare has been described as a “second mastermind” in the ongoing probe. She was taken into custody by the CBI after questioning in connection with the Biology paper leak.
Investigators have linked her to the preparation and sharing of leaked questions related to the Botany and Zoology sections. Officials say she was associated with the examination ecosystem and had access to sensitive material through her role.
How the alleged leak network operated
Preliminary findings suggest that the leaked questions were shared through coaching sessions and handwritten notes before being circulated more widely. Candidates were allegedly instructed to note down questions and answers, which later matched the actual exam paper.
The operation is believed to have involved multiple intermediaries who helped pass on the leaked content across different locations. The network reportedly extended across several states, making the case a large-scale coordinated breach.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a Botany teacher from Pune in connection with the NEET UG 2026 Biology paper leak case, officials said.
” The Pioneer (@TheDailyPioneer) May 16, 2026
The accused, identified as Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, was arrested from Delhi after questioning. With this, the total pic.twitter.com/lqyXvCpx7X
Growing arrests in NEET UG 2026 probe
With Mandhare’s arrest, the total number of individuals taken into custody in the case has risen to nine. Earlier arrests included individuals allegedly involved in different parts of the leak chain, from preparation to distribution.
The CBI has been conducting searches and interrogations across multiple states as part of efforts to identify the full extent of the network. The agency is also examining possible links between coaching centres, intermediaries, and exam insiders.
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Investigation into exam security breach
The NEET UG 2026 leak case has raised serious concerns over examination security and confidentiality protocols. Authorities are continuing efforts to trace how the question paper was accessed and distributed before the exam date.
The investigation remains ongoing, with further arrests and disclosures expected as agencies map the entire structure of the alleged paper leak network.
