NEW DELHI — Following widespread public concern over competitive exam malpractices, the Union Cabinet is set to approve major amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, significantly increasing imprisonment terms and financial penalties for paper leak syndicates.
The proposed Amendment Bill, expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday, comes after assurances from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to restore integrity to national examination systems.
Key Proposed Legislative Amendments
Sources indicate that the upcoming Amendment Bill will introduce several stringent provisions to deter organized cheating networks:
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Escalated Penalties: The amendment seeks to increase both the jail terms and monetary fines beyond existing limits. Currently, individual offenses carry 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 lakh, while organized crime carries 5 to 10 years of imprisonment and a minimum fine of ₹1 crore.
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Fast-Track Court Mandate: The legislation will formally incorporate provisions for specialized fast-track courts to ensure time-bound trials and higher conviction rates in paper leak cases.
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Enhanced Accountability for Service Providers: Further measures will reinforce strict oversight on private exam-conducting agencies and service providers, building on existing regulations that mandate heavy financial penalties for failing to report security breaches.
Executive Directives & Political Context
The legislative push follows a series of administrative actions by the central government to address the crisis:
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Prime Minister’s Statement: In a late-night video address, PM Modi emphasized that safeguarding the academic futures of over 22 lakh affected students remains a top priority, adding that the government worked continuously to fast-track cabinet approvals for the new Bill.
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Judicial Alignment: The move follows the Delhi High Court’s announcement to set up designated fast-track courts specifically tasked with hearing exam malpractice cases.
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Parliamentary Debate: The government plans to press for the rapid passage of the Amendment Bill in Parliament, even as opposition leaders continue to demand heightened executive accountability and administrative resignations.
