Pune, May 18: In a significant development, Manisha Gurunath Mandhare, a biology teacher at the Modern College of Arts, Science, and Commerce in Shivajinagar, Pune, has been arrested in connection with the NEET 2026 question paper leak. Following her arrest, the college administration has taken swift action, suspending Mandhare effective from the date of her arrest on Saturday, May 16.
The college’s regulatory board convened an emergency meeting on Monday to address the situation, resulting in her immediate suspension. An official letter regarding this decision has been issued by the college.
Mandhare has been with the institution since 2002, teaching biology to students in grades 11 and 12 for the past 24 years. Her extensive teaching experience led the National Testing Agency (NTA) to appoint her for some highly confidential tasks related to the NEET examination.
The college administration has distanced itself from the incident, clarifying in the issued letter that Mandhare’s appointment by the NTA was entirely confidential. They emphasized that there was no involvement of the institution or Modern College in this matter. All communications and directives were conducted directly between the teacher and the NTA, without the college administration’s knowledge.
The institution expressed deep disappointment and concern upon learning of Mandhare’s arrest through media reports. The college administration described the incident as extremely serious, unfortunate, and condemnable, stating it tarnishes the reputation of the entire education sector.
During the emergency meeting on Monday, Mandhare’s suspension was approved under Rule 33(5) of the Maharashtra Private School Employees (Conditions of Service) Rules, 1981. The Pune Education Commissioner, along with the Deputy Director and Co-Director of the School Education Department, have been informed of this suspension. The college administration has also confirmed its full cooperation with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in the ongoing investigation.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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