NEET 2026 Exam Scandal: Key Accused in Custody

P V Kulkarni, the alleged mastermind behind the NEET 2026 paper leak, and Manisha Waghmare were sent to 10 days of CBI custody by a Delhi court. The CBI aims to unravel a larger conspiracy involving leaked exam questions, with links to various stakeholders involved in the examination process.

A Delhi court has remanded P V Kulkarni, the alleged mastermind of the NEET 2026 paper leak, and another accused, Manisha Waghmare, to CBI custody for ten days. This decision came on Saturday after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) presented arguments that both individuals needed to be investigated outside the capital to uncover a larger conspiracy.

Special CBI Judge Ajay Gupta approved the remand after the prosecutor informed the court of Kulkarni's role as a Chemistry lecturer involved in preparing 2026 NEET UG exam papers. The investigation revealed that he allegedly organized special coaching sessions at his residence in Pune, where he leaked questions to students.

The remand follows allegations that the NEET UG exam held on May 3 was compromised due to these leaks. Five other suspects have been detained in connection with the case, spotlighting serious irregularities in the examination system. The government's directive to the CBI aims for a thorough probe to maintain the integrity of medical college admissions.