Gujarat : CBI Investigates NEET Paper Leak at Jai Jalaram School

Nadiad - The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has extended its probe into the NEET exam question paper leak and manipulation case to Kheda district. On Wednesday, a CBI team, accompanied by local police, visited Jai Jalaram International School in Thermal, Kheda district.

The main accused, center superintendent Parshottam Sharma, has been denied bail by the local sessions court. Sharma, who was arrested by the Godhra Police in Panchmahal district, is accused of manipulating the NEET exam conducted at Jai Jalaram School's Godhra and Thermal centers.

Key Developments

Sharma, the NEET exam city coordinator and school principal, allegedly met with Tushar Bhatt a day before the exam to prepare a list of examinees. When the rigging came to light, Sharma deleted CCTV footage from his house.

The Chief Sessions Court of Panchmahal district rejected Sharma's regular bail petition. During the hearing, the investigating officer reported non-cooperation from the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the NEET exam. The court criticized the NTA for not providing the OMR sheets of the shortlisted students.

Background of the Case

An FIR was registered at Godhra police station on May 8, 2024, following the NEET UG exam held on May 5, 2024. The state government transferred the case to the CBI for a detailed investigation. The Home Department issued a notification regarding this. The investigation revealed that some candidates received unfair assistance during the exam at Jai Jalaram School, with allegations of charges up to Rs 10 lakh. The District Education Officer filed a complaint against three individuals, including a school teacher and the Deputy Superintendent of the center. Five people have been arrested and interrogated so far.

The CBI continues to investigate the involvement of other individuals and institutions in the case.