New Delhi, July 29: The Lok Sabha on Tuesday took up discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, ending a six-day parliamentary deadlock, with the Centre asserting that the proposed legislation reflects its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the future of students and ensuring transparency in public examinations.
Initiating the debate, Union Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office, Dr. Jitendra Singh, said the amendment Bill strengthens the existing anti-paper leak framework introduced in 2024 and demonstrates the government’s resolve to eliminate examination malpractices. He noted that incidents of question paper leaks have occurred in several states governed by different political parties, making a stronger legal framework essential.
The proposed legislation seeks to introduce stricter punishment for offenders, ensure time-bound investigations, and establish fast-track courts for the speedy disposal of paper leak cases. Under the Bill, investigations into such offences are proposed to be completed within two months, with the objective of delivering swift justice and restoring confidence in the examination system.
The government maintained that the amendments are aimed at protecting the interests of lakhs of students whose academic careers are affected by examination fraud. It described the Bill as a significant step towards preserving the integrity, credibility, and fairness of competitive examinations across the country.
Opposition members, however, criticised the government during the debate, alleging that while stronger laws are necessary, accountability must also be ensured for recent incidents surrounding examination controversies. Several opposition leaders also questioned the police action against students who had staged protests over the paper leak issue, arguing that the concerns of aspirants deserved greater attention.
The debate witnessed sharp exchanges between the treasury benches and the opposition, reflecting differing views on both the proposed legislation and the government’s handling of recent examination-related controversies. Despite the political confrontation, the discussion marked the resumption of legislative business in the Lok Sabha after nearly a week of repeated disruptions.(KNC)
