Amid nationwide protests over the alleged NEET question paper leak, the Union government has decided to tighten the legal framework against malpractice in national-level competitive examinations. Amendments are set to be made to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
According to information cited in the report, those found leaking question papers could face imprisonment of up to 10 years and a fine of up to Rs 10 crore. The amendment bill is expected to be introduced in the Lok Sabha the day after tomorrow, with indications that it may be passed the same day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier said special fast-track courts would be set up to probe and try question paper leak cases, and that legal changes would be made to ensure stringent punishment. A Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in Delhi has reportedly approved the proposed amendments.
The 2024 law was brought in after leaks involving NEET and NET, and covers examinations conducted by agencies such as UPSC, SSC, NTA, and bodies conducting railway and banking exams. It treats such offences as non-bailable and provides for jail terms ranging from three to 10 years and a minimum fine of Rs 1 crore.
Under the proposed changes, special fast-track courts are to be established across states to dispose of cases within three months. The government also plans to enable additional and harsher prison terms for key accused under existing laws, the report said.
