New Delhi, May 16, KNT: The Central Bureau of Investigation has arrested Pune-based chemistry lecturer P.V. Kulkarni, identifying him as the alleged kingpin behind the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case that led to the cancellation and re-conduct of the national medical entrance examination.
According to the CBI, Kulkarni was associated with the examination process on behalf of the National Testing Agency and allegedly had direct access to confidential question papers. Investigators believe he exploited that access to leak examination content ahead of the test conducted on May 3.
Officials said Kulkarni, originally from Latur and arrested from Pune after prolonged interrogation, allegedly organized “special coaching sessions” for selected students during the last week of April with the help of another accused, Manisha Waghmare, who was arrested earlier. During these sessions, he allegedly dictated questions, answer options, and correct answers linked to the NEET-UG examination.
The CBI said searches were conducted at multiple locations across the country over the last 24 hours, leading to the seizure of incriminating documents, electronic gadgets, and mobile phones. Detailed forensic and technical analysis of the seized material is currently underway.
With Kulkarni’s arrest, the total number of accused arrested in the case has risen to eight. Earlier, the agency had arrested several suspects from Rajasthan, Haryana, and Maharashtra in connection with the alleged leak network.
Investigators are also examining possible internal links within the examination system and the extent of involvement of individuals connected to the paper-setting and distribution process.
The NEET-UG 2026 controversy triggered nationwide outrage after allegations surfaced that question papers were leaked and circulated through coaching networks and intermediaries for large sums of money before the examination. Reports suggested that leaked material was allegedly sold in the guise of “guess papers” for amounts ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.
The scandal has intensified scrutiny of the security mechanisms governing India’s largest competitive examinations and raised fresh concerns over transparency and integrity in the examination process. [KNT]
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