In a significant move to strengthen the country's examination system, the Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 by voice vote. The legislation seeks to crack down on paper leaks, organized cheating, and other unfair practices that have affected several competitive and recruitment examinations in recent years.
The amended law proposes stricter punishments, including imprisonment of up to 10 years and fines of up to ₹50 lakh for individuals or organized groups found guilty of leaking question papers or facilitating large-scale examination fraud. Authorities believe these tougher penalties will act as a stronger deterrent against exam-related crimes.
To ensure quicker justice, the Bill mandates that investigations into paper leak cases be completed within two months. It also provides for day-to-day hearings in designated fast-track courts, with trials expected to conclude within three months of filing the chargesheet or transfer of the case.
The legislation also expands accountability by strengthening action against institutions, service providers, and organized networks involved in examination malpractice. It empowers investigating agencies with additional authority to identify and prosecute those using technology or coordinated methods to manipulate public examinations.
The government said the amendment is intended to restore public confidence in competitive examinations and safeguard the interests of millions of genuine candidates. While many welcomed the move, some experts noted that stronger laws should be accompanied by administrative reforms and improved examination security systems for long-term success.
