New Delhi, July 29: In a major move to strengthen the integrity of public examinations, the Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing stricter penalties, faster investigations, and expedited trials for offences related to paper leaks and examination fraud.

The Bill aims to curb the growing menace of question paper leaks and organized cheating, which have disrupted several recruitment and entrance examinations across the country in recent years. The government said the amendments would make the existing law more effective in tackling sophisticated criminal networks involved in examination malpractice.

Under the proposed changes, individuals found guilty of leaking question papers, tampering with examination processes, or participating in organized cheating rackets will face tougher punishment. The amendments also provide for higher financial penalties against institutions, service providers, or organizations that facilitate such illegal activities.

A key feature of the legislation is the introduction of time-bound investigations and quicker prosecution of cases. The government has proposed mechanisms to ensure that agencies complete investigations within a fixed timeline, allowing courts to conduct speedy trials and deliver justice without prolonged delays. Officials believe this will act as a strong deterrent against examination-related crimes while restoring confidence among students and job aspirants.

Replying to the debate in the House, the government said the legislation is intended to protect the interests of millions of candidates appearing for competitive examinations and recruitment tests every year. It stressed that ensuring transparency and fairness in the examination system is essential for maintaining public trust and safeguarding merit-based selection.

The debate witnessed sharp exchanges between the treasury benches and the Opposition. While Opposition members supported stringent action against paper leaks, they raised concerns over the effectiveness of implementation and called for greater accountability of examination authorities. They argued that legal reforms should be accompanied by administrative improvements to prevent recurring lapses.

The government, however, maintained that the amended law would provide investigating agencies with stronger legal powers to identify and prosecute offenders, particularly organized groups involved in large-scale examination fraud.

The Bill comes amid growing public concern over repeated instances of paper leaks affecting recruitment examinations and admission tests in several states. The Centre believes the new provisions will strengthen the legal framework, improve coordination among enforcement agencies, and help ensure that public examinations remain fair, transparent, and free from malpractice.

Having been passed by the Lok Sabha, the Bill will now be placed before the Rajya Sabha. Once approved by the Upper House and receiving the President's assent, the amended legislation will come into force across the country.

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