A major cheating racket was uncovered during the NEET (UG) re-examination in Bihar, with authorities detecting alleged impersonation attempts at multiple examination centres in Lakhisarai district and arresting several individuals linked to a suspected solver gang.
According to sources, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has sought detailed information regarding the network following the discovery of fake candidates appearing in place of registered examinees during Sunday’s re-examination.
Impersonators caught during verification
The alleged fraud came to light during identity verification procedures at examination centres in Lakhisarai. Officials detected discrepancies in photographs, fingerprints and supporting documents, leading to the identification of several individuals suspected of appearing on behalf of actual candidates.
Authorities said nine alleged impersonators were caught across three examination centres. Seven were detected at Kendriya Vidyalaya, one at Hasanpur High School and another at KRK High School.
The re-examination was conducted at four centres in the district, including Kendriya Vidyalaya, Hasanpur High School, KRK High School and DIET Lakhisarai.
Investigation reveals wider network
Following the initial detections, security agencies launched an investigation that reportedly exposed a broader organised network involved in examination fraud.
Preliminary findings suggested that substitute candidates had been arranged to take the examination on behalf of registered aspirants. Investigators are examining the role of intermediaries and the methods used to facilitate impersonation.
Sources indicated that the case has raised concerns among authorities because of the scale of the alleged operation and the level of planning involved.
Multiple arrests reported
According to information emerging from the investigation, around 30 individuals have reportedly been arrested in connection with the case.
Those detained reportedly include five medical students who are suspected of having links to the alleged cheating network. Investigators are examining whether the accused were involved in arranging candidates, facilitating impersonation or coordinating examination-related fraud.
Separately, officials also uncovered another alleged network in Muzaffarpur that was accused of cheating students through the sale of fake question papers.
NTA seeks detailed report
Sources said the National Testing Agency has sought details of the solver gang and the ongoing investigation. Authorities are expected to scrutinise evidence collected from the accused and determine the full extent of the network’s operations.
The latest development comes amid heightened security arrangements for the NEET (UG) re-examination, which was conducted under enhanced monitoring measures aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness in the examination process.
Investigations into both cases remain ongoing.
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