Patna: Investigators probing the alleged Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak have arrested the wife of a key accused in Patna, marking another development in what police describe as an interstate examination fraud network.
Late on Monday night, the Thane Police, with assistance from the Bihar Special Task Force (STF), arrested Suman Gupta from the Gandhi Nagar locality under Agamkuan police station limits. Officials said mobile phones, electronic devices and documents were seized during the operation.
Taken To Maharashtra On Transit Remand
Police produced Suman Gupta before a court before taking her to Maharashtra on transit remand on Tuesday.
According to investigators, she has since been remanded to police custody until July 6.
Her arrest follows those of Rajiv Shah and Akash Kumar from Patna and Dheeraj Singh from Haryana in connection with the same investigation.
Investigation Focuses On Alleged Kingpin
Investigators allege that Suman Gupta’s husband, Bijendra Gupta, is the principal accused in the alleged examination racket. He remains absconding.
According to police, statements recorded from previously arrested suspects identified Bijendra Gupta as the alleged mastermind behind the operation.
Investigators further allege that after arrests were made in Maharashtra, Suman Gupta contacted her husband and advised him not to return to Patna. Police said surveillance and technical evidence formed part of the basis for her arrest.
The allegations have not been tested in court.
Assets And Financial Transactions Under Scrutiny
Police suspect Suman Gupta was aware of the alleged examination fraud network and its financial transactions.
Investigators are examining whether she played a role in managing accounts linked to alleged illegal transactions worth several crores of rupees.
The probe has also expanded to include assets reportedly linked to the family, including a flat in Delhi, a house in Patna and an investment in a beauty studio on Bhootnath Road.
Authorities said the ownership, funding and financial transactions related to these properties are being verified as part of the ongoing investigation.
Family Celebration Cancelled
Bijendra Gupta, who is originally from Sherpur village in Samastipur district, had been living in Patna with his family, according to police.
Investigators said preparations had been underway at the family’s residence for the birthday of his younger daughter on July 1.
Family members reportedly told police that Bijendra Gupta had expressed a desire to attend the celebration despite being on the run.
Following Monday night’s police action, however, the planned event was cancelled and temporary arrangements made for the function were dismantled.
The investigation into the alleged paper leak network remains ongoing, and authorities say further arrests are possible.
