NEET UG Paper Leak Update: The NEET-UG Exam 2024 scandal exposed several flaws in the country’s examination system, drawing nationwide criticism of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and Centre. The controversy involved a 'solver gang' responsible for leaking exam papers and providing proxy candidates for the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2024 Examination suggesting probable involvement of organised gangs in the incident.
The Bihar Police stepped up their investigation into the NEET UG 2024 paper leak case by arresting five more suspects on Sunday. The five arrested individuals are Baldev Kumar, Mukesh Kumar, Rajeev Kumar, and Paramjeet Singh, all belonging to Nalanda. Now, the total number of those apprehended in the alleged scam.
Role Of Mukhiya Gang In NEET UG 2024 Paper Leak
The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police stated that one of the arrested individuals, Baldev Kumar, associated with the notorious Sanjeev Kumar alias Lutan Mukhiya gang, allegedly received the solved NEET-UG answer sheet in PDF format on his mobile phone a day before the exam. Police stated that the Mukhiya gang, responsible for numerous interstate paper leaks, sourced the leaked answer sheet.
The investigation also identified Ravi Atri as the ringleader of the nationwide 'solver gang'. Atri's network specialised in acquiring exam papers beforehand and distributing them through social media to candidates willing to pay for assured success. They also offered a 'Munna Bhai' service, where proxies would sit for exams on behalf of paying candidates.
ALSO READ: NEET Paper Leak Row: Seven-Member Committee Formed To Oversee NTA’s Functioning To Meet Today
Ravi Atri, a former medical aspirant, who turned to exam malpractices after dropping out of the MBBS course from PGIMS Rohtak. Atri used his connections within the exam mafia to orchestrate paper leaks and provide proxy candidates.
Who Is Sanjeev Mukhiya?
Another key figure, Sanjeev Kumar, alias Lutan Mukhiya, was involved in multiple exam paper leaks across various states, impacting constable and teacher recruitment exams. Mukhiya’s potential escape to Nepal complicates the investigation due to extradition challenges.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has faced severe criticism for mishandling the situation, leading to widespread protests and legal actions. The Supreme Court intervened, reprimanding the NTA for its inadequate response. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ruled out cancelling NEET, emphasising the need to protect the careers of students who legitimately passed the exam.
Addressing the issue, the Centre has initiated a CBI probe and implemented a stringent law to curb exam malpractices, featuring penalties of up to 10 years in jail and fines up to Rs 1 crore for offenders while the investigation in the case is underway.
(With Agency Inputs)