New Delhi, 25 July
Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments to Strengthen Public Examination Security
The Central government is set to introduce the Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments in the Lok Sabha on Monday, July 27, aiming to strengthen legal action against examination paper leaks and ensure faster justice. The proposed amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 include stricter punishments, mandatory fast-track courts, and time-bound investigations.
The move comes amid nationwide demands for stronger action against examination malpractices following several alleged paper leak incidents, including the NEET-UG controversy.
Fast-Track Courts Proposed in Every State
Under the proposed Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments, all states and Union Territories will be directed to establish fast-track courts to hear cases related to public examination offences.
The bill states that these courts must conduct hearings on a day-to-day basis and complete trials within three months from the filing of the chargesheet. Investigating agencies will also be required to complete investigations within two months, ensuring that accused persons face speedy legal proceedings.
Stricter Punishments for Paper Leak Offenders
The proposed legislation significantly increases penalties for those involved in examination paper leaks or other unfair practices.
According to the bill:
- Individuals found guilty may face a minimum of five years and up to ten years of imprisonment.
- Courts may impose fines of up to ₹50 lakh on convicted individuals.
- Cases involving organized crime related to paper leaks may attract a minimum prison sentence of seven years along with fines of up to ₹10 crore.
The government believes these tougher provisions will discourage organized examination fraud and protect the credibility of public examinations.
Special Task Force for Major Cases
The Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments also empower the Central government to constitute a Special Task Force (STF) whenever necessary to investigate serious or complex paper leak cases.
The provision is intended to ensure coordinated investigations in cases involving multiple states or organized criminal networks.
Background of the Amendment Bill
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 was enacted to curb unfair practices in public examinations conducted by government agencies.
However, the amendment bill notes that several incidents of question paper leaks and examination malpractices in recent years have undermined the transparency, fairness, and integrity of the country’s examination system.
To address these concerns, the government has proposed stronger legal provisions and faster judicial processes.
Cabinet Clears Bill Ahead of Parliament Session
The Union Cabinet approved the amendment bill on Friday, clearing the way for its introduction in Parliament.
The proposed changes follow assurances made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the ongoing student protests demanding accountability over examination irregularities. The Prime Minister had earlier promised stronger legal measures and fast-track trials in cases involving public examination paper leaks.
Objective of the Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments
The primary objective of the Anti-Paper Leak Law Amendments is to restore public confidence in government examinations by ensuring swift investigations, speedy trials, and stringent punishment for offenders.
With fixed timelines for investigations and court proceedings, the government hopes to reduce delays and improve transparency in handling examination fraud cases across the country.