Cabinet Approves Bill With 10-Year Jail, Rs 10 Crore Fine for Exam Paper Leaks
The Union Cabinet on Friday approved a draft bill that proposes up to 10 years in prison and a maximum fine of Rs 10 crore for individuals and organisations involved in examination paper leaks. The decision, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also provides statutory backing for fast-track courts to complete trials within three months.
The bill seeks to amend the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which was enacted to curb leaks and unfair practices in recruitment exams such as those conducted by the Union Public Service Commission and the Staff Selection Commission, as well as entrance tests like NEET, JEE, and CUET.
According to government officials, the proposed law will increase the minimum jail term for individuals engaging in unfair means from three years to five years, with the maximum remaining at 10 years. Fines for individual offenders, currently capped at Rs 10 lakh, are expected to rise, though the exact amount was not specified.
For organised crimes involving a person or group, including examination authorities or service providers, the bill specifies a jail term of 10 years and a fine of Rs 10 crore. Currently, the fine for such organised offences is Rs 1 crore. The proposed law is also likely to bring coaching centres under its purview for any malpractices.
The Cabinet's approval came hours after Prime Minister Modi, in a social media post, vowed strict measures to prevent paper leaks, which he said have a devastating effect on the country's youth. The bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament soon, with the government aiming for its speedy passage.
A senior government functionary said the 2024 law has helped bust several gangs and take action over the past two years. The amendments aim to strengthen the law and address any shortcomings to protect the interests of the youth.
The draft bill also mandates time-bound completion of investigations, ensuring that cases are resolved swiftly. The fast-track courts will be empowered to dispose of cases within three months.
