New Delhi: The Union government is planning to strengthen the legal framework against malpractice in public examinations, proposing harsher punishment for those involved in paper leaks and related fraud.
According to the proposal discussed in a Union Cabinet meeting in Delhi under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, offenders could face up to 10 years of imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 10 crore.
The amendments also outline stricter provisions when more than one person is involved. In such cases, the punishment is proposed to range from a minimum of five years to a maximum of 10 years in prison, along with a Rs 10 crore fine.
At present, the law provides for three to five years of imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 lakh for individuals caught in such offences, while organisations that fail to report such crimes can face fines up to Rs 1 crore.
The government has approved introducing amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The amendment bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament on Monday.
