The central government is set to amend the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, to strengthen measures against paper leaks.
Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurance, the government is expected to introduce a new bill in the Lok Sabha on Monday. The proposed amendments make the provisions for punishment and fines much stricter.
Significant increase in jail terms and fines
Under the proposed law, anyone found using unfair means will face a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 10 years in prison.
They can also be fined up to ₹50 lakh. Under the current law, the punishment is 3 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
The rules for service providers have also been tightened. If found guilty, they can be fined up to ₹5 crore, and the cost of conducting the examination will also be recovered from them.
They will also be barred from taking part in any public examination process for up to 8 years. Under the existing law, the fine is ₹1 crore and the ban is 4 years.
₹10 crore fine for organised crime
The proposed law provides for 7 to 10 years in prison for organised crimes linked to paper leaks. Offenders can also be fined up to ₹10 crore.
Union Minister of Personnel and Training Jitendra Singh is expected to introduce the bill in the Lok Sabha on Monday.
Special Task Force and Fast Track Courts
The bill adds two new sections, 12A and 12B.
Under these provisions, the central government will be able to set up a Special Task Force. The central investigating agency or a Special Investigation Team (SIT) must complete its investigation within two months of the case being handed over by the central government.
The cases will be heard daily in Fast Track Courts. State governments and Union Territories will appoint Special Fast Track Courts in consultation with the Chief Justice of the High Court.
It will be mandatory to complete the trial within three months of filing the charge sheet.
Stricter rules for appeals too
The bill also sets a time limit for appeals.
Anyone wishing to challenge the decision of a Special Fast Track Court can appeal to the High Court. The appeal will be heard by a bench of two judges, and efforts will be made to decide the case within three months.
The appeal must be filed within 30 days of the judgment. In special circumstances, this deadline can be extended up to 90 days.
