Sanjeev Mukhiya, the alleged mastermind behind the NEET-UG 2024 paper leak and several other exam scams, was apprehended by Bihar Police’s Economic Offences Unit (EOU) in a late-night raid at an apartment in Patna. His arrest on April 24, 2025, followed an extensive 11-month search, during which a reward of ₹3 lakh was announced for information leading to his capture.

Mukhiya, who worked as a technical assistant at Noorsarai Horticulture College, is accused of orchestrating leaks in multiple high-profile exams, including NEET, Bihar Teacher Recruitment, and the Uttar Pradesh Constable Recruitment. Investigations revealed that the NEET UG 2024 paper was stolen from a secure control room in Hazaribagh, with the help of school officials, and distributed to selected candidates before the exam. Forensic evidence, such as burnt question paper fragments, was later found, strengthening the case against him.

Authorities believe Mukhiya led an interstate network that operated across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan. His son, Dr. Shiv Kumar, was also implicated in a separate exam leak case. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Enforcement Directorate (ED) are now involved, probing both the paper leak and Mukhiya’s disproportionate assets. His arrest is expected to uncover more details about the organized racket and bring further suspects to justice