Bill to amend anti-paper leak law gets President's assent

A bill proposing the setting up of fast-track courts in every state for speedy trials of accused in public examination question paper leak cases and stricter punishments has received the assent of the President.

In a gazette notification issued on Friday, the Ministry of Law and Justice said President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, after it was passed by both Houses of Parliament earlier this week.

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Under the amended law, investigations into paper leak cases will have to be completed within two months.

The legislation provides for a minimum jail term of five years and a maximum of 10 years, along with a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, for individuals involved in paper leaks or using unfair means in examinations.

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For organised crimes related to examination malpractice, the amended law proposes a minimum sentence of seven years and a fine of up to Rs 10 crore. The bill also provides for setting up fast-track courts in every state to ensure quicker trials in such cases.

(With PTI inputs)