The Maharashtra Police have apprehended the principal suspect in the Maharashtra Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) paper leak case. Bijendra Kumar Baleshwar Shah was arrested in Patna, Bihar, on July 25, 2026, and subsequently transported to Maharashtra for further inquiry. Along with him, an associate named Indrajeet Singh, also known as Piku, was detained.

Following their arrest by the Bhiwandi Police, both suspects were brought to the Bhiwandi area, where they are currently undergoing questioning at the Deputy Commissioner of Police Zone-2 office. Reports indicate that Bijendra Kumar had been evading authorities for nearly a month prior to his capture.

With this latest development, the total number of individuals arrested in connection with the TET paper leak has increased to 14. The police underscored that the ongoing investigation is concentrating on unraveling the broader network involved in the paper leak and establishing the roles played by other persons within the scheme.

Political Fallout and Reactions

In light of the TET paper leak incident, Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has publicly criticised the Maharashtra government. He pointed out that around six lakh potential candidates have been left in uncertainty, as no new examination date has been announced two weeks following the cancellation of the test.

Gandhi expressed his concerns via a post on X, asserting that the delayed situation is troubling not only for candidates but indicative of systemic failures. He stated that “the leakers roam free, the system remains spotless”, which he believes leaves dedicated students without recourse.

In his statement, Gandhi emphasised the importance of the candidates who aspire to become teachers, highlighting the hard work they have put into preparing for the exam over the years. They have filled out applications, paid fees, and travelled to distant exam centres, only to be left waiting without a timeline or additional information regarding the examination.

Cancellation of TET and Future Procedure

The Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) previously announced the postponement of the Teacher Eligibility Test, originally scheduled for June 28, due to allegations concerning a question paper leak. The police investigation revealed irregularities connected to the proceedings in Bhiwandi, prompting this decision.

As outlined by the Council, the examination was planned to take place across 1,028 centres statewide. Despite the implemention of security measures intended to safeguard the integrity of the test, confidential information emerged that suggested certain individuals in Bhiwandi were allegedly in possession of details regarding the TET question paper.

In light of these events, Gandhi has called for immediate action from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. He demands not only the announcement of a new examination schedule but also strict punitive measures against those implicated in the suspected leak and consideration for age relaxation for candidates impacted by the cancellation.

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