CBI Probes NEET-UG Irregularities with Focus on Evidence Collection

A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrived at the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) office in Patna on June 24 to intensify its investigation into alleged irregularities surrounding the NEET-UG medical entrance exam. The EOU, previously handling the case, had made significant progress with 18 arrests before the CBI took over following an order from the Centre. Key evidence gathered by the EOU includes burnt question papers recovered in Patna, seized mobile phones, SIM cards, laptops, and financial documents like post-dated cheques.

The arrested individuals, currently in judicial custody in Patna, may be transferred to Delhi for further interrogation pending transit remand. The CBI plans to expand its probe by potentially filing multiple FIRs, focusing on evidence tampering and considering disproportionate assets (DA) allegations against public servants involved. One prime suspect, Sikander Prasad Yadvendu, a junior engineer with controversial past involvements, faces scrutiny for allegedly amassing assets beyond his declared income, including a history of previous criminal charges related to corruption.