New Delhi, Aug. 1: President Droupadi Murmu has given her assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, strengthening legal provisions against paper leaks and examination-related malpractices.The President’s approval was notified through a Gazette publication issued by the Ministry of Law and Justice, following the passage of the legislation by both Houses of Parliament earlier this week.
The amended law introduces tougher penalties for individuals involved in paper leaks and other unfair practices in public examinations. Those found guilty may face imprisonment ranging from five to 10 years and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh.The legislation also provides stricter punishment for organised examination-related offences.
Such crimes may attract a minimum jail term of seven years along with a fine of not less than ₹10 crore.The Lok Sabha cleared the Bill earlier, while the Rajya Sabha approved it through a voice vote. The legislation was passed amid a walkout by several Opposition parties belonging to the INDIA bloc.The Centre said the amendments were aimed at strengthening the integrity and credibility of public examinations and protecting the interests of students.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reacting after Parliament passed the Bill, said the government had completed an important step towards establishing a strong legal framework against paper leaks. He said efforts were being made to prevent examination fraud and ensure that organised networks involved in such activities could not jeopardise students’ futures.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of using modern technology to improve the security and transparency of examination systems.The amended legislation is expected to provide stronger legal tools to investigate and punish examination-related fraud while acting as a deterrent against individuals and organised groups involved in paper leaks.
