The Union Cabinet on Friday approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, paving the way for a tougher legal framework to tackle examination paper leaks. The move comes amid the ongoing nationwide controversy over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and growing demands for stronger action against those involved. The amendment Bill is expected to be introduced in Parliament on Monday during the Monsoon Session.
Under the proposed changes, investigations and trials in paper leak cases will have to be completed within three months through specially designated fast-track courts. The amendments also seek to provide statutory backing for these courts to ensure quicker disposal of cases involving examination fraud.
The revised law proposes significantly stricter penalties for organised paper leak rackets. Those found guilty could face imprisonment of up to 10 years along with fines of up to ₹10 crore, substantially increasing the punishment for organised examination-related crimes.
The existing Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 criminalises offences including question paper leaks, organised cheating, impersonation and tampering with computer systems used for public examinations such as NEET, JEE and other competitive tests. The proposed amendments are aimed at strengthening enforcement and enhancing the deterrent effect of the legislation.
The Cabinet’s decision follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement that the government would introduce stronger legal measures to protect the integrity of public examinations. The move also comes as protests over the alleged NEET paper leak continue across the country, with demonstrators demanding accountability, reforms in the examination system and action against those responsible for the controversy.
