Lok Sabha passes Bill to curb paper leaks in exams like UPSC, SSC, entrance tests NEET, JEE and CUET

“The Bill is aimed at curbing corrupt practice by few unscrupulous elements that plays havoc with the future of our youth, destroying their careers and aspirations and occasionally resulting in fatal suicides”: Dr Jitendra Singh

In a significant stride towards ensuring the integrity of examinations, the Lok Sabha has approved 'The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024'. This decisive move aims at quashing paper leaks, malpractices, and organized wrongdoings rampant in various recruitment exams like UPSC, SSC, as well as entrance tests such as NEET, JEE, and CUET.

Responding to a rigorous debate on the bill, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the legislation is geared towards protecting the merit of the nation's youth and safeguarding the well-being of children. The bill encompasses a broad spectrum of examinations, including those conducted by the Union Public Service Commission, Staff Selection Commission, Railways, banking recruitment exams, and all computer-based tests managed by the National Testing Agency.

Dr. Singh underscored the urgency of addressing instances of malpractice, citing numerous incidents across different states over recent years. He emphasized the non-partisan nature of the issue, asserting that the bill transcends political boundaries and aims to tackle corrupt practices that jeopardize the future of the country's youth.

Crucially, Dr. Singh clarified that the bill shields candidates appearing in examinations from its punitive measures, ensuring that they continue to be governed by the existing administrative provisions of exam conducting authorities.

The bill proposes stringent penalties, including imprisonment ranging from three to five years for cheating and up to 10 years for those involved in organized cheating, coupled with hefty fines of a minimum of Rs 1 crore. While targeting organized gangs and institutions engaged in unfair means for monetary gain, the bill prioritizes the protection of candidates' interests.

Cutting across party lines, Dr Jitendra Singh says, the legislation is aimed at safeguarding merit of our youth and well-being of our children. “The matter is above politics and there is no difference of opinion among members of the House,” Dr Jitendra Singh said.

"Modi Government has initiated youth-centric provisions and schemes in the last ten years, such as ensuring transparency and providing equal opportunity and level-playing field in recruitments and higher studies," says Dr Jitendra Singh.