Key Highlights:
- The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrests two individuals from Bihar in connection with the NEET-UG paper leak.
- Sunny Kumar, a candidate, was arrested from Nalanda, and Ranjit Kumar, another candidate’s father, was arrested from Gaya.
- The Supreme Court demands detailed affidavits from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Central government, with a status report from the CBI by July 10.
Details of the Arrests:
The CBI has apprehended two more individuals from Patna related to the alleged paper leak of the NEET-UG examination. Sunny Kumar, a NEET-UG candidate, was arrested in Nalanda, and Ranjit Kumar, the father of another candidate, was arrested in Gaya. These arrests are part of a broader investigation into the NEET-UG 2024 exam, which took place on May 5 and was attended by approximately 24 lakh candidates.
Background of the Case:
The NEET-UG exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is a crucial entrance examination for courses such as MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related programs in both government and private institutions across India. The 2024 examination has been marred by controversies surrounding allegations of a paper leak. So far, the CBI has arrested eight individuals in Bihar and Jharkhand in connection with this case, alongside arrests related to manipulations in Latur, Godhra, and Dehradun.
Supreme Court’s Involvement:
In response to widespread allegations of malpractice in the May 5 exam, the Central government directed the CBI to investigate the matter thoroughly. The Supreme Court, recognizing the compromise in the exam’s integrity, has demanded detailed affidavits from the NTA and the Central government by July 10, outlining the actions taken so far. The court also requested a status report from the CBI regarding their investigation.
Statements from the Supreme Court:
The Supreme Court has acknowledged the severity of the leak, stating, “The fact that the sanctity of the exam has been compromised is beyond doubt. It is an admitted fact that there is a leak and the nature of the leak is something that we are determining. If it is not extensive, then there is no cancellation. But before we order a retest, we must be conscious of the extent of the leak as we are dealing with 23 lakh students…”
The apex court has mandated that the CBI, along with the Centre and NTA, submit comprehensive affidavits by 5 pm on July 10, detailing the progress of the investigation and the evidence gathered.
Upcoming Hearings:
The case is scheduled for further hearing on July 11, where the court will review the submissions and decide on the next steps. The outcome will be closely watched by millions of students and educational institutions nationwide.
Conclusion:
The NEET-UG paper leak case continues to unfold, with significant legal and investigative actions underway to address the malpractice allegations. The involvement of the Supreme Court and the ongoing CBI investigation underscore the seriousness of the issue, aiming to restore the integrity of one of India’s most crucial entrance examinations.
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