NEET Row: CBI Team to Visit Patna; Arrested Individuals May Be Taken to Delhi for Questioning
A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) team is expected to visit Patna on Monday to further investigate the NEET-UG paper leak case. This visit may include transferring the individuals arrested by the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) of the Bihar Police to Delhi for detailed interrogation, officials stated. The EOU has so far apprehended 18 people in connection with this case.
Background of the Case
The CBI registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Sunday concerning alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam, which was held on May 5, 2024. The FIR was filed based on a reference from the Education Ministry amidst widespread protests and litigation by students demanding an investigation into the paper leak allegations.
CBI's Planned Actions
The CBI team is expected to arrive at the EOU office around 11:30 AM to collect evidence related to the case. The evidence includes:
- Burnt question papers recovered from a house in Patna
- Mobile phones, SIM cards, and laptops of those arrested
- Post-dated cheques
- Reference question papers provided by the National Testing Agency (NTA)
Potential Developments
- Interrogation in Delhi: All individuals arrested are currently in judicial custody in Patna. The CBI team may obtain a transit remand from the court to transfer them to Delhi for thorough questioning.
- Filing Multiple FIRs: The CBI might file multiple FIRs to investigate the destruction of evidence and could also register disproportionate assets (DA) cases against some of the accused, particularly public servants.
Key Suspect: Sikander Prasad Yadvendu
One of the primary suspects in the case is Sikander Prasad Yadvendu, a junior engineer in the Danapur Town Council. Yadvendu, originally from Samastipur, has been identified as a significant figure in the paper leak incident. Key points about Yadvendu include:
- Disproportionate Assets: The CBI may file a DA case against Yadvendu due to his alleged accumulation of assets disproportionate to his known income sources.
- Criminal History: Yadvendu has a prior criminal record. Before becoming a junior engineer in 2012, he worked as a contractor in Ranchi and was implicated in an LED scam worth Rs 3 crore, for which he served a jail sentence.
Ongoing Investigation
The CBI's involvement marks a critical phase in the investigation, as they aim to uncover the extent of the irregularities and bring all responsible parties to justice. The collection of evidence and further interrogation will be crucial in establishing the details of the case.
Additional Information
Candidates and stakeholders in the NEET-UG 2024 are advised to stay updated on developments through official channels. The CBI's findings and subsequent actions will significantly impact the integrity and future conduct of the examination.
Stay tuned for more updates as the investigation progresses.
