CBI Gets More Time to Question Accused in NEET-UG Leak Probe

A Delhi court on Saturday extended the custody of an accused in the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case, allowing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) additional time to continue its probe.

Special Judge Ajay Gupta extended the CBI custody of accused Manisha Sanjay Hawaldar by two more days. The court also remanded another accused, Manisha Mandhare, to judicial custody.

The order came while hearing the agency’s plea seeking further interrogation of the accused as part of the ongoing investigation into the alleged leak of the medical entrance examination paper.

Allegations Against the Accused

According to submissions made by Special Public Prosecutor V K Pathak, Hawaldar was empanelled as a physics translator by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

The prosecution alleged that she conspired with other accused individuals and unlawfully retained and distributed the NEET-UG examination paper in exchange for monetary benefits.

Investigators believe the alleged actions may have played a role in compromising the confidentiality of the examination process.

Investigation Continues

The CBI is examining the roles of various individuals linked to the case and investigating whether a larger network was involved in obtaining, retaining, and distributing confidential examination material.

The alleged paper leak has generated significant concern among students and parents, given the importance of NEET-UG as the gateway to undergraduate medical education in India.

The court’s decision to grant further custody is expected to assist investigators in gathering additional evidence and identifying other individuals who may have been involved in the alleged conspiracy.