‘Solver Gang’ Behind NEET Paper Leak, Cops Arrest Mastermind Ravi Atri
Ravi Atri, the alleged mastermind behind the NEET-UG 2024 exam paper leak, has been apprehended by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) amidst widespread student protests demanding an investigation into the exam irregularities. Atri, hailing from Neemka village in Greater Noida, is accused of orchestrating a scheme that has cast doubt on the integrity of India’s highly competitive medical entrance exam.
The controversy arose when 67 students achieved a perfect score of 720 in the NEET-UG exam. The National Testing Agency (NTA) initially attributed this to grace marks due to a flawed question and logistical issues in paper distribution at some centers. However, subsequent investigations by Bihar police revealed evidence of the exam paper being leaked to certain candidates.
The NEET-UG exam, taken by nearly 24 lakh aspiring medical students, was conducted on May 5, and the results were fast-tracked for early release on June 4. Despite efforts by the NTA to manage the fallout, allegations of widespread leaks persisted, sparking protests and legal actions nationwide. The Supreme Court also intervened, criticizing the NTA for its handling of the situation.
At the center of the unfolding scandal is Ravi Atri, who has a history of alleged involvement in previous exam paper leaks across different states. He allegedly operated by uploading solved question papers on social media platforms through a network known as the ‘solver gang’. Atri’s notoriety dates back to his arrest in 2012 by the Delhi Police Crime Branch for his alleged role in leaking medical entrance exam papers.
The Bihar Police initially arrested several individuals linked to the leak, including a student and accomplices, and extended their investigation beyond state borders. During interrogations, connections to Atri emerged, leading to his eventual capture by the UP STF.
In 2007, Atri’s family sent him to Kota to prepare for his medical entrance exam. He cleared the exam in 2012 and secured admission in PGI Rohtak but did not appear for the exam in the fourth year. Authorities allege that during this period, he became associated with the ‘exam mafia’ and played a significant role in circulating leaked papers among students.
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