Bihar Police uncover 6 post-dated cheques in NEET-UG paper leak investigation

The Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of Bihar Police is investigating a major NEET-UG paper leak case. Investigators have recovered post-dated cheques from individuals suspected of being involved in the scam, where over ₹30 lakh was demanded from each candidate for leaked question papers. Deputy Inspector General (EOU) Manavjit Singh Dhillon stated that six such cheques were found, and investigators are currently identifying the account holders through their banks.

Arrests and evidence

So far, the EOU has arrested 13 people, including four examinees and their family members, all from Bihar. Notices have been issued to nine more candidates from Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra to join the investigation. The police report that the alleged leaked question papers were given to candidates at a "safe house" near Patna a day before the NEET-UG exam on May 5. The suspects' parents reportedly paid over ₹30 lakh for the papers.

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During searches, police recovered partially burned question papers, mobile phones, admit cards, and other documents. The EOU is awaiting reference question papers from the National Testing Agency (NTA) to compare with the recovered papers.

Allegations and demands

The NEET-UG 2024 exam, conducted by the NTA, involved over 24 lakh candidates across 4,750 centers. Following the exam results on June 4, allegations of irregularities surfaced, with 67 students topping the exam. Some candidates have approached the Supreme Court, demanding a fresh exam due to the alleged paper leaks.

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The education ministry has denied the allegations, emphasizing that the government will not tolerate malpractice. However, opposition leaders have called for a Supreme Court-monitored investigation to ensure transparency and integrity in the examination process.

The investigation continues as police gather more evidence and seek cooperation from the NTA to resolve the case.