Union Cabinet approves bill on exam paper leak penalties

The Union Cabinet approved a draft bill on July 24, 2026, to significantly strengthen penalties for examination paper leaks, proposing up to 10 years in prison and fines reaching 10 crore rupees for offenders. The legislation, which seeks to amend the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act of 2024, is expected to be introduced in Parliament next week and will mandate fast-track courts to complete trials within three months.

The Cabinet's decision followed a late-night announcement on July 23 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who stated the government would bring a bill with strong provisions against paper leaks and try to pass it swiftly. Earlier that day, Modi had also directed officials to establish fast-track courts to ensure speedy and stringent punishment for those involved in such malpractices.

The proposed amendments aim to enhance the legal framework established by the 2024 law, which was enacted to address widespread controversies over alleged irregularities in major exams like the NEET and UGC-NET. That existing law defines offenses including question paper leaks, tampering with answer sheets, creating fake websites, and issuing fraudulent admit cards for...