NEET 2026 Leak: Two Fresh Arrests Push Tally to 13

In a significant development in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak investigation, the CBI has arrested two more individuals, raising the total count of those in custody to thirteen. The fresh detentions underline the expanding scope of the probe as investigators trace every link in the supply chain of leaked question papers. Dr. Manoj Shirure of Latur has been identified as a crucial intermediary who allegedly arranged for the chemistry question paper to reach three students associated with a coaching centre operator. His arrest follows revelations that he maintained direct contact with the main accused, P.V. Kulkarni, to ensure timely delivery of the leaked material. Tejas Harshadkumar Shah, a physics lecturer at a Pune-based medical academy, is the other person taken into custody. The agency claims he obtained the leaked physics paper from previously arrested suspect Manisha Havaldar, further exposing the role of teaching professionals in the conspiracy. Since registering the case on 12 May, the CBI has carried out coordinated raids at forty-nine sites nationwide. Seized electronic devices and documents are being analysed to uncover communication patterns and financial trails. Special teams continue to operate across Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nashik, Pune, Latur and Ahmednagar. Authorities emphasise that the investigation remains focused on locating the primary source of the leak and understanding how the papers were distributed before the exam. The agency has pledged to pursue every lead until the entire racket is exposed.