Centre Plans Tougher Anti-Paper Leak Law With Harsher Punishment, Faster Trials
New Delhi, July 24: In response to the nationwide outrage over recent exam paper leak cases, the Centre is preparing to strengthen India’s anti-cheating laws by introducing stricter punishments and speeding up the legal process for offenders.
According to government sources, the Union Cabinet is expected to consider amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 during its meeting on Friday. The proposed changes aim to crack down more effectively on paper leak networks and restore students’ trust in the examination system.
One of the key proposals includes the establishment of fast-track courts dedicated to hearing paper leak cases, ensuring quicker justice. The amendments are also expected to increase both jail terms and financial penalties for individuals found guilty of leaking examination papers or engaging in organised cheating.
Under the current law, those convicted can face three to five years in prison along with a fine of up to ₹10 lakh. Organised paper leak rackets attract five to ten years of imprisonment and a minimum fine of ₹1 crore, while service providers who fail to report such offences can also face heavy penalties.
The proposed Amendment Bill is likely to be introduced in the Lok Sabha next week after receiving Cabinet approval.
The move comes amid continuing protests by students over the NEET paper leak controversy. On Thursday night, Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured students that the government is treating the issue with utmost seriousness. He acknowledged the anxiety faced by lakhs of students and their families, stating that strict action has already been taken against those responsible and that further legal reforms are on the way.
The Prime Minister also said he had directed officials to establish fast-track courts so that cases can be resolved without unnecessary delays. He expressed confidence that the proposed legislation would be passed quickly once introduced in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi claimed that around 150 paper leak incidents have occurred over the past decade without a single conviction, while reiterating the Opposition’s demand for the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
With tougher laws, faster trials, and stricter penalties under consideration, the government hopes to strengthen the integrity of public examinations and reassure millions of students preparing for competitive exams.
News source: Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
