Union Minister Jitendra Singh introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Proceedings of the House were adjourned until 2 PM just minutes after the bill was tabled, due to an uproar in the chamber.
The bill aims to further strengthen the legal framework against paper leaks and examination malpractices. The proposed amendment seeks to enhance transparency and credibility within the examination system. It provides for stringent penalties for offenders, including imprisonment of up to 10 years, fines of up to ₹10 crore, confiscation of assets, and a mechanism to ensure the adjudication of cases within three months.
This move follows the Union Cabinet’s approval on Friday of the bill and related provisions aimed at establishing fast-track courts and ensuring severe punishment for cases involving paper leaks and exam fraud.
The initiative comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent announcement that a comprehensive bill containing provisions for strict action against paper leaks would be introduced in Parliament.
Under the proposal, fast-track courts would be mandated to complete hearings and deliver verdicts within three months to ensure speedy justice in cases of examination-related offenses.
Earlier on Sunday, PM Modi had announced the formation of a task force on examination reforms, headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani. The Prime Minister stated that measures to ensure the credibility of future examinations would be taken based on the task force’s report.
