NEET 2026 Leak: CBI Nabs Chemistry Lecturer in Pune Raid

The CBI struck a decisive blow against exam malpractices by arresting PV Kulkarni, a chemistry lecturer and key figure in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, from his Pune hideout. With privileged access to NTA's confidential materials, Kulkarni allegedly ran a clandestine operation that compromised the integrity of the medical entrance exam. Details emerging from the probe paint a picture of calculated deceit. Teaming up with previously detained Manisha Vaghmare, Kulkarni gathered aspiring medical students at his home in late April 2026. In secretive classes, he revealed precise exam questions, choices, and solutions, which students hand-wrote into notebooks – later proven identical to the May 3 exam paper. Kulkarni's capture came after relentless questioning, capping a 24-hour spree of searches across India that yielded vital evidence including papers, gadgets, and phones now under forensic scrutiny. Triggered by the Education Ministry's May 12 complaint, the CBI swiftly mobilized teams, detaining suspects from cities like Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, and Ahilyanagar. Seven arrests mark significant progress, with five in custody for deeper probes. The agency has pinpointed the chemistry section leak origin and identified brokers who charged hefty sums to connect wealthy students to these premium leak sessions. As the investigation deepens, authorities vow to dismantle the entire syndicate threatening India's competitive exam system.