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NEET paper leak: Second insider arrest puts entire committee under CBI scrutiny

The CBI has expanded its investigation into the NEET paper leak case after arresting a second insider linked to the examination process.

By Poulomee Mangal

May 17, 2026 13:36 IST

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its probe into the NEET paper leak case after arresting a second insider allegedly connected to the examination process. Officials are now scrutinising the role of the entire committee associated with the handling and conduct of the medical entrance examination.

According to reports by Hindustan Times, the latest arrest has strengthened suspicions that the leak may have involved coordinated actions from individuals within the examination system. Investigators are now examining internal communications, document handling procedures and the movement of confidential materials linked to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).

Second insider arrested

The newly arrested accused was reportedly involved in the examination process and is suspected of facilitating access to confidential question papers before the examination was conducted. Officials believe the leak network may have extended beyond a few individuals and involved organised coordination.

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The arrest came after earlier investigations led to the detention of another insider allegedly linked to the leak operation. With two insiders now arrested, the CBI is widening its focus to examine whether lapses or direct involvement existed at multiple levels of the exam administration system.

Entire committee under scrutiny

Hindustan Times, in a report, said investigators are reviewing the role of the entire committee involved in conducting and supervising the examination process. Officials are analysing digital evidence, call records and communication trails to determine whether any additional officials or intermediaries were involved.

The NEET examination is one of India’s largest entrance tests, conducted for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country. Because of the scale of the exam and the number of students involved, allegations of irregularities triggered widespread concern among candidates and parents earlier this year.

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The paper leak controversy had already led to protests, political criticism and demands for stricter accountability in the examination system. Several arrests have been made in connection with the case across different states over the past few months.

Investigation continues

As per the reports of Hindustan Times, the CBI is continuing to question suspects and gather evidence related to the leak network. Authorities are also examining financial transactions and possible beneficiary links connected to the alleged operation.

Officials have not ruled out the possibility of more arrests as the investigation progresses. Meanwhile, the case has once again raised concerns over examination security, transparency and the integrity of large-scale competitive entrance tests in India.

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