According to sources, on Sunday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) initiated an investigation into allegations of irregularities in NEET-UG 2024. This move came shortly after the Centre transferred the case to the CBI for further inquiry.

The decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI followed reports of cheating, impersonation, and other fraudulent activities during the examination.

The Ministry of Education officially announced, ‘Several instances of suspected irregularities, cheating, impersonation, and malpractices have been reported about the NEET examination. To ensure transparency in the examination procedures, following a thorough review, the Ministry of Education has chosen to assign the investigation to the CBI for a thorough inquiry.’

The NEET-UG examination took place on May 5 at 4,750 centers nationwide, with approximately 24 lakh candidates participating. The results were unexpectedly announced on June 4, ten days earlier than scheduled.

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Several days later, reports emerged of a NEET-UG paper leak in Bihar. Patna Police apprehended seven individuals, including four candidates, in connection with the incident. According to their written statements, the arrested candidates admitted to receiving the question paper a day before the examination.

A political controversy quickly ensued, with the Opposition calling for the re-conduct of the NEET medical entrance exam.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, however, emphasized that the government would not jeopardize the futures of thousands of aspirants due to a few ‘isolated incidents’.

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