The proposed legislation introduces stricter penalties for examination fraud, organised paper leaks, and malpractice in public examinations
The Central Government has introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Methods) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha to strengthen action against examination malpractice and organised paper leak networks. The proposed law includes stricter prison terms, higher fines, fast-track trials, and enhanced accountability for institutions and testing agencies.
New Delhi: The Central Government on Monday introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Methods) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha, proposing stricter legal measures to tackle examination malpractice and organised question paper leaks. The move comes amid nationwide concern over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination and recent student protests demanding reforms in the examination system.
The Bill was introduced by Minister of State for Personnel and Training Dr. Jitendra Singh, with the government stating that the proposed amendments are aimed at strengthening the integrity, transparency, and accountability of public examinations across the country.
"This is a crucial day for the future of millions of students. The government has introduced a stringent law to prevent examination malpractices, and all political parties should participate in the discussion constructively," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said.
Public Examinations Amendment Bill 2026 Proposes Stricter Punishments
Under the proposed legislation, individuals convicted of examination fraud could face five to ten years of imprisonment, while those involved in organised question paper leak networks may face up to 10 years in prison along with a fine of up to ₹10 crore.
The Bill also proposes the confiscation of assets belonging to coaching centres or training institutes found to be involved in paper leak operations.
In addition, examination service providers found guilty of malpractice could face an eight-year blacklisting, while senior management personnel and company directors may also face imprisonment of up to 10 years if held responsible for organised examination fraud.
Fast-Track Investigation and Trial Process Proposed
The proposed amendments also seek to accelerate the legal process for examination-related offences.
According to the provisions of the Bill:
- Investigations must be completed within two months.
- Cases will be heard through fast-track courts.
- Daily hearings are proposed to ensure quicker disposal.
- Judgments should be delivered within three months of filing the chargesheet.
The government said these measures are intended to ensure timely prosecution and stronger deterrence against examination-related crimes.
Government Announces High-Powered Task Force
Soon after the Bill was introduced, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, through a video message, announced the formation of a six-member high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.
The task force has been assigned to recommend technology-driven reforms aimed at improving transparency, security, and efficiency in India's examination system.
The government said the initiative is expected to strengthen examination processes through greater use of technology and enhanced monitoring mechanisms.
"The task force will work towards bringing greater transparency and technological safeguards to public examinations," the Prime Minister said in his announcement.
Opposition Protests Continue Over NEET Issue
The introduction of the Bill came amid continuing political protests over the NEET examination controversy.
Opposition Members of Parliament, including Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, staged a protest within the Parliament complex, alleging police excesses during recent demonstrations by students over the NEET paper leak issue.
Separately, leaders of the INDIA alliance held a strategy meeting under the chairmanship of Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge to discuss their approach to the proposed legislation during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament.
The Bill is expected to be debated in Parliament in the coming days as both the government and opposition prepare to present their respective positions on the proposed examination reform framework.
