IPS Rajeev Ranjan? Sikkim Cadre Officer Leading CBI Probe into Patna NEET Student Death Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has intensified its inquiry into the Patna NEET student death case, placing the investigation under the direct supervision of IPS officer Rajeev Ranjan, who is currently serving as Joint Director (Inspector General rank) of the CBI for Bihar and Jharkhand.
The high-profile case has drawn significant public attention, prompting the agency to accelerate evidence collection and forensic scrutiny across multiple locations.
CBI Probe Under the Supervision of Rajeev Ranjan
The investigation team, led by Rajeev Ranjan, has been actively pursuing leads from Patna to Jehanabad as part of its effort to establish the sequence of events and determine accountability. In a recent development, investigators seized the mobile phone of the deceased student’s brother to examine digital communications and other potentially relevant data.
According to officials, the Joint Director is closely overseeing every procedural aspect of the probe. The investigation includes questioning of family members and associates to ensure that all possible angles are examined thoroughly. The CBI’s intensified involvement signals the gravity of the case and the agency’s intent to conduct a meticulous, evidence-based inquiry.
Who Is IPS Rajeev Ranjan?
IPS Rajeev Ranjan is a 2005-batch officer of the Indian Police Service from the Sikkim cadre. He is presently posted as Joint Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for the Bihar and Jharkhand zone, with his headquarters located in Ranchi.
Over the years, he has built a reputation for handling sensitive investigations and leading complex security operations.
Early Life and Educational Background
Rajeev Ranjan hails from Amanderi village in Rohtas district of Bihar. He is the son of the late Murali Prasad, who served as a teacher.
He completed his schooling at Sarvodaya School in Nokha and later continued his education in Ara and Patna. He graduated from Patna College of Commerce before successfully clearing the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination and entering the Indian Police Service.
Professional Journey and Career Milestones
Before assuming his role in the CBI, Rajeev Ranjan served in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and held several important assignments involving internal security and counter-terror operations.
Among his key professional highlights:
Led elite security teams assigned to guard the Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi in Mathura.
Conducted anti-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during his tenure as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of the Hiranagar Range in Nagrota.
Recognized with the President’s Medal and the Police Medal in 2025 for distinguished and meritorious service.
His experience in both field operations and investigative leadership has contributed to his current assignment overseeing critical CBI cases in eastern India.
Role in High-Profile Investigations
Rajeev Ranjan is known for managing complex and politically sensitive investigations. Some of the major cases associated with his investigative tenure include:
Fodder Scam (Chara Ghotala)
He played a significant role in the investigation of the Fodder Scam, which ultimately led to the conviction of former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav in multiple cases related to fraudulent withdrawals from the animal husbandry department.
IRCTC / Land-for-Jobs Case
He also oversaw aspects of the probe into the alleged land-for-jobs case involving contracts and land transactions linked to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The case implicated several prominent political figures, including Lalu Prasad Yadav, Rabri Devi, and Tejashwi Yadav.
Other Significant Cases
In addition to the above, he has been associated with investigations into the Saradha Chit Fund scam in West Bengal and illegal mining cases in Sahibganj, Jharkhand, both of which required extensive inter-agency coordination.
Awards and Recognition
In 2025, Rajeev Ranjan was awarded the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service, acknowledging his professional integrity, investigative acumen, and leadership in complex law enforcement operations.
He is widely regarded within investigative circles for his methodical approach and firm handling of high-stakes cases.
Clarifying Identity Confusion
Given the commonality of his name, IPS Rajeev Ranjan is sometimes mistaken for other public figures. It is important to distinguish him from:
Rajiv Ranjan Verma, a retired 1978-batch Bihar cadre IPS officer and former Director General of the Railway Protection Force (RPF).
Rajeev Ranjan Singh, also known as Lalan Singh, a Janata Dal (United) politician and Union Minister from Bihar.
Rajeev Ranjan Prasad, a legal and political figure from Bihar.
The IPS officer currently leading the CBI investigation into the Patna NEET student death case is the 2005-batch Sikkim cadre officer serving as Joint Director (IG rank) in the CBI.
Intensified Probe Signals High-Level Oversight
With Rajeev Ranjan at the helm, the CBI’s intensified probe reflects heightened institutional attention to the Patna NEET student death case. As evidence collection, digital forensics, and witness questioning continue, the outcome of the investigation is expected to carry significant legal and administrative implications. The case remains under active investigation.
