India’s Central Bureau for Investigation (CBI) detained Friday four students of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Patna, in the case of National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak. Abnormal results on the 2024 NEET  undergraduate exam have caused observers and students to question the integrity of the test. 

Dr. Gopal Krushna Pal, Director of AIIMS Patna, spoke to ANI and confirmed that allegations that the CBI had arrested the four students were correct. “Our four students have been formally arrested,” he said, citing CBI information. He went on to say that the medical university deliberated on the subject and determined that, while the students may face suspension, this move is contingent on additional legal advice.

Recently, Indian state Bihar’s Patna High Court ordered the CBI to take 13 people into custody for alleged involvement in leaking the NEET examination paper. The CBI was initially denied the request, but due to the seriousness of the case, the previous order was suspended. The accused will be in CBI custody until the 15-day period from the date of arrest expires.

The 2024 NEET exam has sparked allegations of rank inflation, cheating, and a potential question paper leak. The National Testing Agency (NTA) initially denied the claims, but suspicions grew after question papers appeared on social media shortly after the exam. Investigations revealed the leaked papers originated from Nalanda, Bihar state, where 18 suspects were apprehended. Concerns over fairness and integrity are growing, and the NTA has formed a panel to investigate the allegations.