The Indian government today introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha. The legislation aims to strengthen the existing 2024 anti-paper leak law with tougher penalties, faster investigations, and dedicated courts, following the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy and widespread student protests.
Key Provisions
- Imprisonment: Individuals involved in paper leaks or unfair means face 5–10 years in jail (up from 3–5 years) and fines up to ₹50 lakh.
- Organised crime: Minimum 7 years imprisonment and fines up to ₹10 crore.
- Service providers / senior management: Higher penalties, including fines up to ₹5 crore and longer debarment periods.
- Investigations: Must be completed within 2 months. Special Task Force option available.
- Trials: States/UTs to designate Special Fast-Track Courts. Trials to finish within 3 months of chargesheet filing, with day-to-day hearings.
Background
The Bill amends the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. It comes amid fallout from the NEET paper leak, which led to exam cancellation, a re-test, CBI probe, and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The government has faced intense pressure from student groups over exam integrity.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh tabled the Bill. Proceedings faced disruptions, with the House adjourned at points due to Opposition protests.
The legislation is part of broader efforts to restore trust in competitive exams like NEET, JEE, and others. Further debate and passage will follow in Parliament.
This is a developing story. For more details on specific clauses or political reactions, let me know.
