As the controversy surrounding the NEET paper leak continues to unfold, attention is now focused on Sanjeev Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind the scandal that has shaken the medical entrance examination system.
Hailing from Bihar’s Nalanda district, Sanjeev Mukhiya, also known as Sanjeev Singh, has come under scrutiny for his involvement in exam fraud spanning over two decades. Formerly employed as a technical assistant at Nalanda College’s Noorsarai branch, Mukhiya’s alleged connections to multiple paper leaks, including the 2016 Bihar Public Service Commission constable recruitment exam leak, have brought him into the spotlight of law enforcement agencies.
Authorities have identified Mukhiya as a key figure in operating a ‘Solver Gang’ alongside Ravi Atri, offering leaked question papers and proxy exam-takers. The investigation has uncovered a widespread network spanning constable recruitment exams to teacher recruitment exams across multiple states, revealing the magnitude of the operation.
Mukhiya’s family and political connections add another layer to the saga. His wife, Mamta Devi, holds the position of ‘mukhiya’ or chief of Bhuthakhar panchayat, courtesy of a ticket from the Lok Janshakti Party. Meanwhile, his son, Shiv Kumar, faces legal issues for alleged involvement in a separate exam paper leak related to Bihar’s teacher recruitment exams.
In the NEET-UG exam context, the controversy erupted when an unusually high number of students scored a perfect 720. Initial attributions to grace marks were soon overshadowed by Bihar Police’s revelations of a pre-exam paper leak orchestrated by Mukhiya. Reports indicate he received leaked materials via mobile from an unnamed professor.
Efforts to apprehend Mukhiya are ongoing, with law enforcement agencies intensifying their search amidst a wider crackdown on his alleged network. However, reports suggest Mukhiya may have fled to Nepal, complicating extradition procedures due to bilateral agreements between India and Nepal.
Sources By Agencies