Public Examinations Amendment Bill introduced in Lok Sabha to tighten anti-cheating law
New Delhi: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh introduced the Public Examinations Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha on Sunday. The Bill proposed faster investigations, Special Fast Track Courts and tougher penalties to stop question paper leaks and organised examination malpractice.
The Bill sought to strengthen the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. It aimed to deliver quicker justice and create a stronger deterrent against examination offences. It also sought to improve accountability and protect the integrity of public examinations.
The Bill proposed a minimum jail term of five years for people who used unfair means. The current minimum term is three years. Courts could award up to 10 years in prison. The maximum fine would rise from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh.
The Bill also proposed stricter action against service providers involved in offences. It would raise the maximum fine from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore. It would also extend their debarment from four years to eight years. Managerial personnel could face five to 10 years in prison and fines of up to ₹5 crore.
Public Examinations Amendment Bill proposes faster trials
The Bill proposed tougher punishment for organised examination crimes. It would raise the minimum jail term from five years to seven years. The maximum fine would increase from ₹1 crore to ₹10 crore.
The proposed law would also allow the Central Government to refer investigations to a Special Task Force. The government could constitute the task force for offences under the Act.
Proposed Section 12A required investigators to complete probes within two months. It also designated Courts of Session as Special Fast Track Courts. These courts would conduct day-to-day trials. They would complete trials within three months after the charge sheet was filed. The government would appoint a Special Public Prosecutor for every Special Fast Track Court.
The Bill also proposed a new Section 12B. It would allow appeals before the High Court within 30 days. As far as possible, the High Court would dispose of such appeals within three months.
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 came into force on June 21, 2024. It covers recruitment examinations conducted by UPSC, SSC, Railway Recruitment Boards, IBPS, NTA and Central Government departments. The Act treats all offences as cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable.
The government said the amendments would strengthen the legal framework. They would target question paper leaks, impersonation and organised cheating. The Bill also sought to protect deserving candidates. In addition, it aimed to improve public confidence in the fairness and transparency of the examination system.
