Cabinet Tightens Anti-Paper Leak Law: Up to 10 Years Jail, Rs 10 Crore Fine
The Union Cabinet on Friday approved amendments to the anti-paper leak law, significantly increasing penalties for those involved in leaking examination papers. Offenders will now face up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 10 crore.
The proposed changes aim to curb the rising number of exam paper leaks that have disrupted academic calendars and caused distress among students. The amended bill, formally known as the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, also includes provisions for faster investigations and stricter punishment for organized syndicates.
Under the new framework, any person found guilty of leaking question papers or tampering with answer sheets will be liable for imprisonment ranging from 5 to 10 years and a fine that may extend to Rs 10 crore. Additionally, the bill proposes that the cost of conducting re-examinations, if required due to such malpractices, will be recovered from the offenders.
The government has stated that the law is designed to protect the interests of honest students and maintain the integrity of public examinations. The bill also covers officials and employees of examination bodies who collude with wrongdoers, making them equally liable.
The amendments come after consultations with various stakeholders, including education boards and law enforcement agencies. The bill will now be introduced in Parliament for approval. If passed, it will replace the earlier ordinance that had similar provisions but with a lower maximum fine of Rs 1 crore.
The cabinet decision reflects the government's commitment to ensuring fair and transparent examinations. However, experts have cautioned that effective implementation and timely judicial processes are crucial for the law to achieve its intended purpose.
