Lok Sabha Discusses Bill to Prevent Exam Paper Leaks Amid Protests

In a heated session of the Lok Sabha, Speaker Om Birla called for a discussion on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, amidst protests from opposition members regarding police actions against students. He urged both the government and opposition to reach an agreement by evening to facilitate a debate on this crucial legislation aimed at preventing exam paper leaks. The session faced multiple adjournments due to disruptions, highlighting the tensions surrounding the issue. Birla emphasized the importance of the bill for the future of millions of youth and called for constructive dialogue rather than protests. The session's proceedings reflect the ongoing struggle between legislative responsibilities and political dissent.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 27, 2026, 15:30 IST

Debate on Exam Paper Leak Prevention Bill

New Delhi, July 27 - Amidst uproar from opposition members regarding police actions against students who protested last week over the NEET paper leak issue, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged for a discussion on the government’s proposed bill aimed at preventing such leaks. He called upon both the government and opposition parties to reach a consensus by this evening.

After two adjournments, the session resumed at 2 PM, where Birla encouraged the protesting members to participate in the debate on the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. As the opposition continued to disrupt proceedings, he appealed for cooperation from both sides to address the matter.

Birla stated, “We want to discuss this topic. I am giving you three hours. By 5 PM, the government and all parties should come to an agreement so that we can begin discussions on this bill.” Following this, he adjourned the session until 5 PM.

Earlier, he emphasized, “The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 is crucial for the future of millions of our youth, their hard work, and aspirations. This bill is a significant step towards effectively curbing crimes like paper leaks and ensuring strict penalties against offenders to protect the interests of countless young individuals.”

He insisted that all members should express their views on this important legislation, stating, “Shouting slogans and waving placards does not facilitate discussion on the bill.” He assured that he would allocate six hours for debate on this bill, with the possibility of extending the time if needed.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju remarked, “This bill is of utmost importance, and the numerous amendment notices indicate that many members wish to express their opinions on it.” He pointed towards the opposition members protesting near the podium, questioning why they were disrupting discussions on such a significant bill that the youth are watching closely.

He urged Congress to advise their colleagues to engage in the discussion. Earlier, when the session commenced at 11 AM, members from Congress and several other opposition parties created a ruckus demanding accountability from Home Minister Amit Shah regarding police actions against protesting students, leading to the session being adjourned shortly after it began, until noon.

Birla warned some opposition members causing disturbances that action would be taken against those attempting to undermine the decorum and traditions of the House. When the Lok Sabha reconvened after one adjournment at noon, opposition members resumed their protests.

Meanwhile, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Jitendra Singh, introduced the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 amidst the ongoing uproar. As the chaos continued, Birla adjourned the session again at 12:08 PM until 2 PM.