New Delhi: In a major move to curb examination fraud, the Central Government is preparing to strengthen the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 by introducing stricter penalties and faster trials for paper leak cases. The proposed amendments come amid nationwide protests by students over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including the NEET paper leak controversy.
According to government sources, the revised law is expected to introduce fast-track courts dedicated to hearing paper leak cases. These courts will aim to complete trials and deliver judgments within three months, ensuring quicker justice and stronger deterrence against those involved in examination fraud.
Tougher Punishment for Paper Leak Offenders
The proposed amendments significantly increase the punishment for individuals found guilty of leaking examination papers or participating in organised cheating networks.
If approved, offenders could face:
- Up to 10 years of imprisonment
- A fine of up to ₹10 crore
At present, the existing law provides for 3 to 5 years of imprisonment along with a fine of up to ₹10 lakh for those convicted in paper leak cases.
The government is also considering stricter action against organisations and service providers that fail to report suspected paper leak activities. Existing provisions already allow penalties of up to ₹1 crore for non-reporting, while organised examination fraud can attract 5 to 10 years in prison along with a minimum fine of ₹1 crore.
Amendment Bill Likely in Parliament Next Week
Sources indicate that the amendment bill is expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha when Parliament reconvenes next week. The proposed changes are aimed at making anti-cheating laws more effective and ensuring that examination-related crimes are dealt with swiftly.
PM Modi Promises Stronger Action
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently assured students that the government is taking the issue seriously and that further measures are being implemented to protect the integrity of public examinations.
In a video message, the Prime Minister described paper leaks as a matter of great concern for millions of students and their families. He said the government had already taken several steps over the past few months, including arresting those responsible and ensuring that examinations were conducted without unnecessary delays so students would not lose an academic year.
He also revealed that he had instructed officials to establish fast-track courts for paper leak cases. According to the Prime Minister, the proposal has received departmental approval and will be discussed by the Union Cabinet before being presented in Parliament.
Political Reactions Continue
The issue has also sparked political debate. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi recently alleged that nearly 150 paper leak incidents had taken place over the past decade and claimed that there had been no convictions in these cases.
After the Prime Minister’s announcement, Rahul Gandhi reiterated his demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, stating that students continue to seek accountability over repeated examination controversies.
Focus on Restoring Trust
The proposed amendments reflect the government’s effort to restore public confidence in India’s examination system by introducing stricter punishments, faster judicial processes, and stronger accountability. If passed by Parliament, the revised law could mark one of the toughest legal frameworks against paper leaks and examination malpractice in the country.
