NEET-UG Paper Leak: CBI Arrests Key Suspect Rakesh Ranjan, Investigation Expands

New Delhi: In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Rakesh Ranjan, also known as Rocky, the alleged mastermind behind the NEET-UG paper leak. Ranjan was taken into custody this afternoon, and the CBI has been granted a 10-day custody by the court. This arrest is part of a larger investigation, involving coordinated raids at four locations—two near Patna in Bihar and two near Kolkata in West Bengal.

The NEET-UG exam, conducted on May 5, 2024, has been mired in controversy due to allegations of cheating and impersonation. The CBI’s investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of over a dozen individuals, including the principal and vice-principal of a school in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand. State police forces and the CBI are collaborating to dismantle a nationwide network involved in leaking question papers for competitive exams like NEET.

Recently, the CBI has filed six First Information Reports (FIRs), with five separate cases in Bihar. Utilizing advanced investigative techniques, such as detailed analysis of digital footprints like IP addresses and email communications, the CBI has successfully tracked and apprehended those involved.

“The arrest of Rakesh Ranjan is a pivotal step in exposing the full scope of the malpractice that has undermined the integrity of one of India’s key entrance examinations,” stated a CBI spokesperson.

The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the NEET-UG exam, has faced severe backlash, leading to widespread protests and legal actions. In response, the Union Health Ministry has postponed the NEET-PG 2024 examination, with new dates to be announced soon. Additionally, the government has replaced the NTA chief and formed a committee to review and enhance its functioning.

These actions aim to restore confidence in the examination process and ensure the integrity of future competitive exams. The CBI’s ongoing efforts are crucial in dismantling the network behind the paper leak and preventing such incidents from happening again.

As the investigation progresses, the CBI remains dedicated to following leads and gathering evidence to bring all those involved to justice. The developments in this case underscore the need for stringent measures and technological advancements to protect the credibility of India’s educational examinations.