Pune Botany Teacher Arrested in 2026 NEET-UG Paper Leak Investigation

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has apprehended a botany teacher from Pune, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, in connection with the ongoing probe into an alleged paper leak of the 2026 undergraduate National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG). The announcement was made by the Union government on Saturday, shedding light on a case that has raised serious concerns about the integrity of one of India’s most pivotal examinations for medical admissions.

With over 22 lakh candidates competing for a place in undergraduate medical courses this year, the NEET-UG exam is crucial for aspiring medical students across the country. The CBI’s investigation into the paper leak has revealed connections between various individuals involved in the examination process, including Mandhare, who was appointed as an expert by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Mandhare was reportedly arrested in Delhi, and she has since been placed into CBI custody for 14 days. This arrest follows the earlier detention of the main suspect in the case, identified as PV Kulkarni, a chemistry lecturer affiliated with the NTA. The CBI’s actions have sparked concerns over the examination’s credibility, prompting calls for stricter oversight and preventive measures in the future.

According to the Ministry of Education, Mandhare’s involvement in the alleged leak was facilitated through her collaboration with another accused, Manisha Waghmare, who was taken into custody earlier in the week. Investigations suggest that special coaching classes were conducted at Mandhare’s residence in Pune during April, where sensitive questions from the Botany and Zoology sections of the exam were reportedly disclosed and discussed. This revelation has intensified scrutiny over the examination processes and the individuals entrusted with them.

The NEET exam is a gateway for thousands of medical aspirants, and any hint of malpractice undermines public trust in the system. As the CBI continues to investigate the extent of the paper leak and the network of individuals involved, this case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by educational bodies in ensuring fair and transparent assessments. The government has assured the public that it will take all necessary steps to uphold the sanctity of the examination process.

Source: scroll.in