Lok Sabha passes anti-paper leak amendment bill with tougher penalties amid opposition uproar

Mangalore Today News Network

New Delhi, Jul 29, 2026: The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing tougher penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment and a ₹50 lakh fine for those involved in examination paper leaks. The bill was passed amid sloganeering by opposition members.

The legislation was introduced in the House by Union Minister Jitendra Singh on July 27, days after widespread student protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party resulted in the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan as Union Education Minister.

During the debate, Singh said the government had acted promptly in the NEET paper leak case and that 52 FIRs had been registered since the anti-paper leak law came into effect in 2024.

He said the amendment reflects the government’s willingness to strengthen the law based on experience and added that the number of suicides linked to paper leaks has declined in recent years.

Singh also criticised Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, alleging that he lacked an understanding of parliamentary procedures and the functioning of the government.

Following the passage of the bill, the Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day.