The Lok Sabha has passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, aimed at curbing paper leaks and exam fraud. The bill introduces stricter punishments, including jail terms of 5 to 10 years and fines up to ₹50 lakh for individuals found guilty of leaking papers or using unfair means.
For organised exam fraud, the law prescribes a minimum of 7 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 crore. Service providers such as exam-conducting agencies can face fines up to ₹5 crore and debarment for 8 years if found complicit. The amendment also mandates that investigations be completed within 2 months and trials concluded within 3 months through fast-track courts.
The bill was passed by voice vote amid uproar in the House, with opposition members raising concerns over student protests and alleged police excesses during demonstrations against exam irregularities. Union Minister Jitendra Singh described the legislation as a milestone to safeguard the future of millions of students.
The move comes in the wake of the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and growing demands for accountability in public examinations. The government has positioned the bill as a strong deterrent against malpractice, while critics argue that systemic reforms in exam administration are equally necessary.
