The Lok Sabha on July 29 approved the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, despite protests from Opposition members. The legislation introduces stricter punishments of up to 10 years imprisonment and fines of up to ₹50 lakh for individual offenders, while organized paper-leak syndicates face fines of up to ₹10 crore. The government emphasized the need to enhance legal protections and curb malpractice in competitive examinations.
Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh highlighted the government's quick response in the NEET paper leak case, noting that prompt action helped contain the situation. He informed the House that since the original anti-paper leak law came into effect in 2024, authorities have registered 52 FIRs related to examination paper leaks across the country.
The amendment Bill seeks to address loopholes in existing legislation by establishing fast-track courts, setting strict investigation timelines, and increasing penalties to deter paper leak activities effectively. The government maintained that such measures are crucial to preserving the integrity of competitive exams and ensuring a fair process for all candidates.
