Four individuals have recently confessed to their involvement in leaking the NEET exam paper. This admission has not only raised serious concerns about the integrity of the examination process but has also ignited a heated political battle among Bihar’s leaders. The controversy centers around the alleged connections of the accused to prominent political figures, particularly within the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD). Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has accused RJD leader Tejaswi Yadav’s aide of being linked to the scandal, leading to a war of words and intense scrutiny of political relationships and their influence on such criminal activities.
Accusations Against Tejaswi Yadav’s Associate
Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha has pointed fingers at Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejaswi Yadav’s aide, Pritam Kumar, alleging his connection to one of the arrested suspects, Sikandar Prasad Yadavendu. According to Sinha, on May 1, Pritam Kumar contacted Pradip Kumar, a guesthouse worker, to book a room for Yadavendu, though no action was taken initially.
Repeated Requests and Call Details
Sinha further disclosed that on May 4, Pritam Kumar made another call to Pradip Kumar, this time insisting on securing a room at the NHAI guesthouse for Sikandar Kumar Yadavendu. During this conversation, Pritam Kumar specifically used the term “mantri,” indicating Tejaswi Yadav’s involvement. This choice of words suggested a direct connection and implied that the request had significant political backing. To substantiate his allegations, Sinha presented detailed call records from both days, emphasizing the repeated attempts to book the guesthouse and the use of Tejaswi Yadav’s name, which he argued indicated undue influence and possible complicity.
NHAI’s Response
Contrary to these allegations, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) clarified that there is no guesthouse facility under its jurisdiction in Patna. This statement came in response to media reports suggesting that the accused stayed at an NHAI guesthouse in Patna.
Sinha’s Demands for Clarification
Deputy Chief Minister Sinha has urged Tejaswi Yadav to clarify whether Pritam Kumar continues to hold the position of his personal secretary and to shed light on the identity and role of Sikandar Kumar Yadavendu. Sinha asserts that Yadavendu had a significant connection with Lalu Prasad Yadav, as he allegedly served Lalu during his time in jail in Ranchi. This connection raises questions about Yadavendu’s influence and involvement in political matters. Sinha’s demand for clarification is part of a broader effort to uncover the extent of the alleged network and its potential implications for the NEET paper leak investigation.
Investigation Calls and Further Allegations
Sinha questioned Yadavendu’s rise to prominence, asking, “Who brought him to the urban development department? Who appointed him in charge of Danapur and several other places? How did he gain control over Tejaswi and Lalu Yadav’s domestic and external affairs?” He stressed that the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) and Bihar Police are investigating and demanded a thorough probe into Anurag Yadav, a NEET aspirant linked to the room booked for Yadavendu.
Sinha’s Criticism of RJD
Sinha criticized the RJD, stating, “They exploit the future of the people, engage in scams while in power, and attempt to manipulate appointment processes when out of power.”
Tejaswi Yadav’s Role and the Political Fallout
The allegations have intensified the political rivalry in Bihar, with Tejaswi Yadav at the center of the controversy. As the investigation unfolds, the involvement of Tejaswi’s aide has put the RJD on the defensive. Sinha’s accusations not only target Tejaswi but also question the ethical practices of the RJD during their tenure and beyond.
The Road Ahead
The NEET paper leak case has significant implications, highlighting the need for stringent measures to prevent such breaches in the future. As the investigation by the EOU and Bihar Police continues, it remains to be seen what further revelations will surface and how they will impact the political landscape in Bihar.
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