Patna: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its investigation into the tragic Patna NEET student death case, with the probe being conducted under the leadership of IPS Rajeev Ranjan, Joint Director (IG) of the CBI for Bihar and Jharkhand.
Investigation Under Rajeev Ranjan
The CBI team has been actively gathering evidence from Patna to Jehanabad. In a recent development, investigators confiscated the mobile phone of the deceased student’s brother while collecting crucial leads. Rajeev Ranjan, along with his team, is monitoring every aspect of the probe, including questioning family members of the deceased to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the case.
Who Is IPS Rajeev Ranjan?
IPS Rajeev Ranjan is a 2005-batch officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) from the Sikkim cadre, currently serving as Joint Director of the CBI in Bihar and Jharkhand, with headquarters in Ranchi.
Early Life and Education
- Origin: Hails from Amanderi village in Rohtas district, Bihar.
- Family: Son of the late Murali Prasad, a teacher.
Education: Studied at Sarvodaya School in Nokha, then in Ara and Patna. He graduated from Patna College of Commerce before clearing the UPSC and joining the IPS.
Career Highlights
Before joining the CBI, Rajeev Ranjan served in the CRPF and played key roles in high-profile security and anti-terror operations:
Led elite teams guarding the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura.
Conducted successful anti-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly as DIG of the Hiranagar Range in Nagrota.
Awarded the President’s Medal and Police Medal in 2025 for distinguished service.
High-Profile Investigations
Rajeev Ranjan has a reputation for handling complex, high-stakes cases:
Fodder Scam (Chara Ghotala): Played a pivotal role in investigations that led to the conviction of Lalu Prasad Yadav.
IRCTC / Land-for-Jobs Scam: Oversaw investigations into land exchange and hotel contracts, implicating Lalu Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Tejashwi Yadav.
Other Cases: Saradha Chit Fund scam in West Bengal and illegal mining investigations in Sahibganj, Jharkhand.
Awards and Recognition
President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (2025): Recognized for exemplary integrity and investigative skills.
Known for his sharp investigative acumen and work ethic that often unsettles major scamsters.
Clarifying Name Confusions
Due to the commonality of his name, Rajeev Ranjan is often confused with:
- Rajiv Ranjan Verma: Retired 1978-batch Bihar cadre IPS officer, former DG of Railway Protection Force (RPF).
- Rajeev Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh): JDU politician and Union Minister from Bihar.
- Rajeev Ranjan Prasad: Legal and political figure from Bihar.
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