Government Proposes Stricter Measures Against Exam Paper Leaks

The Central government has introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha, aiming to implement stricter measures against exam paper leaks. This legislation proposes the establishment of fast-track courts and mandates timely investigations, responding to widespread protests following the NEET-UG paper leak. Amidst ongoing disruptions in the House, Opposition members are demanding accountability regarding police actions against protesting students. The bill seeks to amend existing laws to enhance penalties for examination-related malpractices, reflecting the government's commitment to maintaining the integrity of public examinations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 12:53 IST

Introduction of the Amendment Bill

Opposition MPs stage a protest in the Lok Sabha during the Monsoon session of Parliament, in New Delhi, on Monday. (Photo:PTI)

New Delhi, Jul 27: On Monday, the Central government presented the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, in the Lok Sabha. This legislation aims to implement stricter measures to prevent paper leaks, including the establishment of fast-track courts, time-sensitive investigations, and harsher penalties for those found guilty.

Opposition Protests and Legislative Context

The Bill was introduced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh amidst ongoing disruptions in the House, as Opposition members called for a discussion regarding the alleged police crackdown on students protesting the NEET-UG paper leak and other examination irregularities.

This proposed legislation seeks to amend the existing anti-paper leak law, which has been in place for two years, in response to widespread protests that erupted following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy.

Key Provisions of the Bill

Among its significant provisions, the Bill suggests the creation of fast-track courts in each state to expedite trials related to paper leaks.

It also requires that investigations into these cases be concluded within a two-month timeframe and introduces stricter penalties to discourage malpractice associated with examinations.

Government's Response and Ongoing Protests

This legislative move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to strengthen the anti-paper leak law after the resignation of former Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Shortly after the Bill's introduction, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla adjourned the House until 2 pm due to continued protests from Opposition members, who demanded accountability from the government regarding the alleged police actions against students during the Cockroach Janta Party-led march to Parliament on July 20.

Continued Disruptions in the Lok Sabha

Earlier in the day, the proceedings were disrupted soon after the House convened. Speaker Birla acknowledged the achievements of Indian athletes at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games before Opposition members began to chant slogans.

He reminded the members that Question Hour is designated for obtaining answers from the government, not for raising unrelated issues, and warned protesting MPs of potential action if disruptions persisted. With the noise continuing, he adjourned the House until noon.

Since the Monsoon Session commenced on July 20, the Lok Sabha has experienced repeated disruptions, with the Opposition demanding discussions on the NEET paper leak and the alleged use of force against protesting students.

Monday marked the sixth consecutive session where Question Hour could not be held due to these disruptions.