Questions Raised Over CBI’s Track Record in Bihar Amid Patna NEET Student Death Probe

Patna: The mysterious death of a young girl preparing for the NEET examination in a private hostel in Patna has triggered widespread outrage across Bihar. Candle marches and public protests are being held, demanding justice for the deceased student.

In response to the growing pressure, the Bihar government has recommended a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the case, claiming that the decision was taken to ensure a fair, transparent, and impartial investigation.

However, the move has also sparked a fresh debate, as the victim’s family reportedly opposed a CBI inquiry and instead demanded a judicial investigation. This has raised serious questions about the credibility and effectiveness of CBI investigations in Bihar, especially given the agency’s track record in several high-profile cases.

Family Wanted Judicial Probe, Government Chose CBI

According to sources, the family of the deceased student was not in favor of transferring the case to the CBI. They had demanded a judicial inquiry, fearing delays and lack of accountability.

Despite this, the state government went ahead with its recommendation, stating that a CBI probe would provide greater transparency and public confidence.

CBI’s Past Investigations in Bihar Under Scanner

The decision has once again brought attention to multiple high-profile cases in Bihar where CBI investigations either took years to reach conclusions or failed to deliver satisfactory results.

Several past cases have left the public questioning whether the agency is capable of delivering timely justice.

Srijan Scam: Investigation Still Incomplete

One of the biggest cases that shook Bihar was the Srijan Scam, which surfaced in 2017.

The scam involved the illegal transfer of government funds to a Bhagalpur-based NGO, Srijan Mahila Vikas Sahyog Samiti (SMVSS). The estimated amount involved was believed to be over ₹1,000 crore, with misappropriation occurring between 2004 and 2014.

After a major political uproar, the case was handed over to the CBI. While multiple arrests have been made and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has been involved in money laundering-related actions, the investigation has still not reached a final conclusion.

Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Case: Convictions, But Doubts Remain

The Muzaffarpur Shelter Home Case, which came to light in 2018, involved allegations of sexual abuse of minor girls inside a government shelter home.

Following revelations in a report by the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), the case was investigated by the CBI.

The agency succeeded in securing convictions, including that of the main accused Brijesh Thakur. However, opposition parties and activists alleged that influential individuals connected to the case were shielded, raising concerns over the depth and impartiality of the probe.

Navruna Kidnapping Case: No Outcome Even After 13 Years

Another case that continues to haunt Bihar is the kidnapping of 12-year-old Navruna, who was abducted from her home in Muzaffarpur in 2012.

Following Supreme Court directions, the CBI took over the case. Yet, even after 13 years, the investigation has failed to provide closure.

Despite suspicions of involvement by land mafia, the CBI reportedly attempted to close the case citing lack of evidence—an effort strongly opposed by the victim’s family.

Khushi Kidnapping Case Still Unsolved

Similarly, the 2021 kidnapping case of five-year-old Khushi, abducted from a Saraswati Puja pandal in Muzaffarpur, remains unresolved.

After the local police failed to find leads, the CBI stepped in. Despite extensive investigation including polygraph tests, forensic analysis, and questioning of suspects, the child has still not been traced even after more than five years.

Public Concerns Grow Over Patna NEET Student Case

With these unresolved cases in the background, public skepticism is growing over whether the CBI can deliver timely justice in the Patna NEET student death case.

While the government insists that the CBI will ensure an unbiased probe, critics argue that the agency’s slow pace in previous cases raises doubts over the decision.

As protests continue and the demand for justice intensifies, the spotlight is now firmly on the CBI—and whether it can restore public trust by delivering concrete results in this sensitive and tragic case.