Union Cabinet clears proposal for tougher law against exam paper leaks
The Union Cabinet has approved a proposal to strengthen penalties under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 in response to recurring examination paper leak cases.
The proposed amendments would increase the minimum prison sentence for those involved in paper leaks to five years, with organised offences carrying penalties of up to ten years in jail and fines reaching ₹10 crore.
According to the government, the tougher provisions are aimed at organised networks and institutions engaged in examination fraud, while ensuring that ordinary candidates are not subjected to the harshest penalties. Fast-track courts are also being proposed to speed up trials.
The move follows widespread protests over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations, including NEET-UG. The government has indicated that the amendment bill will be introduced in Parliament at the earliest opportunity.