Lok Sabha Initiates Discussion on Public Examination Amendment Bill 2026

Introduction to the Amendment Bill

On the seventh day of the ongoing Monsoon session in Parliament, the Lok Sabha commenced discussions on the 'Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026'. Union Minister Jitendra Singh introduced the anti-paper leak legislation, emphasizing the need to strengthen existing laws related to paper leaks. He pointed out that various states governed by different political parties have witnessed incidents of paper leaks, and the Modi government aims to finalize legislation to prevent irregularities in examinations scheduled for 2024.

Historical Context of Paper Leaks

Jitendra Singh recounted a list of paper leak incidents that occurred during the UPA regime, including the Railway Recruitment Board leak in 2009, the All India Engineering Entrance Examination leak in 2011, and the AIIMS entrance paper leak in 2012, among others. He noted that if he continued listing these incidents, it would hinder the discussion on the bill. He highlighted the need for a specific law to address these issues, given the presence of four major recruitment agencies under the Government of India: UPSC, Staff Selection Commission, Railway Recruitment Board, and the Institute of Banking Personnel.

Formation of the National Testing Agency

He mentioned that the National Testing Agency (NTA) was established by this government in 2017. The idea for a common national testing agency was first proposed in 1992 under a Congress-led government, and again suggested by a committee during the UPA's tenure in 2010. Singh expressed confusion over why these proposals were not adequately considered, regardless of the reasons or personal interests involved. He urged recognition of Prime Minister Modi and his government for completing this long-overdue task.

Significance of the Amendment Bill

Regarding the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, Singh stated that this bill is an amendment to the earlier Public Examinations Prevention of Unfair Means Act 2024, which was also introduced by the current government. He asserted that this legislation is likely the first of its kind in independent India’s history.

Commitment to Student Welfare

Singh emphasized that both the previous bill and the current amendment reaffirm the government's deep commitment to safeguarding the welfare of students and youth in the country. He reiterated Prime Minister Modi's pledge that no one should jeopardize the future of 'Bharat Mata's' children, suggesting that this bill could be considered a landmark law in the history of the Indian Parliament.

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