The governing body of Progressive Education Society's Modern College of Arts, Science and Commerce in Pune has suspended biology teacher Manisha Mandhare, who was arrested in connection with the NEET paper leak case. The decision was taken during an urgent meeting held on Monday.
Suspension Under MEPS Act
The members decided to suspend Mandhare under Rule 33(5) of the Maharashtra Employees of Private Schools (Conditions of Service) Rules, 1981 (MEPS Act), with effect from Saturday. This was stated in a press release issued by the society's secretary, Shamkant Deshmukh.
Teacher's Background and NTA Role
Mandhare had been working in the junior section of the college in Shivajinagar since 2002, teaching biology to Standard XI and XII students. Considering her teaching experience, the National Testing Agency (NTA) had appointed her for certain confidential works related to the NEET examination.
The institution clarified that neither the society nor the college had any direct connection with this appointment. All correspondence and instructions regarding the NTA assignments were directly communicated to Mandhare. Therefore, the college administration and the institution had no involvement in the process, the statement added.
