CBI focus swings to Sikar paper leak beneficiaries

Jaipur: The Central Bureau of Investigation has brought more than 60 suspected beneficiary candidates of the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak from the state under its scrutiny as part of its probe. Although the agency has not officially confirmed the exact number of such beneficiaries from Rajasthan, sources indicate a significant number of them are from the state’s coaching hub – Sikar.

Notices asking such candidates to appear for questioning are likely to be issued soon.

Investigators are examining financial transactions, phone records and communication links involving suspected beneficiaries, their families and alleged racket operators as the probe expands beyond kingpins and middlemen.

Officials said the agency is focusing on candidates who paid large sums to obtain the leaked question paper before the examination, which was conducted on May 3.

“Names of several beneficiaries have surfaced during interrogation of those in custody. Their names are currently being verified,” a senior CBI officer said Monday.

Officials said the agency may consider turning some beneficiaries into case witnesses if they cooperate and provide information about the racket’s functioning and money trail.

The investigation into the paper leak intensified after the arrest of three members of the Biwal family from Sikar — brothers Dinesh Biwal and Mangilal Biwal, and Mangilal’s son Vikas Biwal. The three are accused of procuring the leaked paper and selling it further down the line.

During their questioning, investigators reportedly obtained details of several candidates who received the leaked paper through this network.

Investigators said Dinesh Biwal paid around Rs 10 lakh to procure the paper for his son Rishi. Despite having the questions in advance, CBI sources said, Rishi managed to score only 107 out of 720 and could not qualify. The CBI is currently on the hunt for Rishi.

Investigators are also reviewing his academic record. Sources said he scored 254 out of 500 marks (50.8%) in the RBSE Class 12 exams, allegedly after receiving grace marks and with weak scores in Physics and Chemistry.