New Delhi: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday approved the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing stricter penalties and faster legal action to curb paper leaks and examination fraud.

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Under the amended law, those convicted of leaking question papers can face imprisonment ranging from five to 10 years, along with a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh. Organised exam fraud will attract a prison term of up to seven years and a maximum penalty of Rs 10 crore.

The legislation also lays down strict timelines for enforcement, requiring investigating agencies to complete probes within two months, while special fast-track courts must conclude trials within three months.

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The Centre said the amendments are aimed at strengthening the integrity of public examinations and rebuilding public confidence in the recruitment and admission process. Opposition members, however, criticised the Bill, arguing that it fails to address the systemic issues behind recurring examination irregularities.

The Bill was passed by a voice vote following a heated debate in the House that witnessed repeated disruptions and protests from Opposition benches.

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