If Exam Papers Are Leaked: Up to 10 Years Imprisonment and Fine Up to ₹10 Crore

The Modi government has taken a very strict decision regarding exam paper leaks. The government is prepared to severely punish those involved in leaks. A draft bill has been prepared to impose up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹10 crore on culprits in question paper leak incidents. It is reported that this decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Narendra Modi.

The Union Cabinet has also approved this; however, an official announcement is awaited. The Union Cabinet meeting held today gave the green signal to amend the ‘Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024’ to enable strict action against organized gangs and accused individuals involved in paper leaks.

As part of this, the Union Cabinet approved the Paper Leak Amendment Bill, incorporating strict provisions to impose a maximum punishment of up to 10 years in prison along with a fine of up to ₹10 crore on those committing irregularities.

Furthermore, it has been decided to establish special statutory fast-track courts to expedite the trial of these cases. Beyond just registering cases and conducting investigation processes, clear provisions have been included in the new law to ensure that a final verdict is delivered within 3 months of initiating the trial.

The Union Government has made key amendments to the 2024 Entrance Examinations Act. Currently, under this law, offenders in individual cases of question paper leaks face 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh. The Modi government has now amended the law to significantly increase these penalties and fines.