The government has introduced the Public Examinations Amendment Bill in the Lok Sabha. Its full name is the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. Notably, it aims to make the 2024 Act even stronger. Moreover, it raises punishments and speeds up investigation and trial.
Background: The 2024 Act
Parliament passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act in 2024. It was India’s first dedicated law against exam cheating and paper leaks. Also, it targeted organised exam fraud. Now, the 2026 Bill builds on this law.
Tougher Penalties
The Bill raises penalties sharply:
- Individual offenders: Jail of 5 to 10 years and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh. Earlier, the jail term was 3 to 5 years with a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
- Service providers: A fine of up to ₹5 crore and an 8-year ban from public exams. Earlier, the fine was ₹1 crore with a 4-year ban.
- Directors and senior managers: Jail of 5 to 10 years and a fine of ₹5 crore.
- Organised crime syndicates: Jail of 7 to 10 years and a fine of at least ₹10 crore.
Special Task Force
Under the 2024 Act, a police officer of at least Deputy Superintendent rank investigated cases. Also, the Centre could hand a case to a Central Investigating Agency. Now, the Bill adds another option. In particular, the Centre can set up a dedicated Special Task Force. Once formed, it alone will probe that case. Hence, responsibility stays clear and focused.
Two-Month Deadline for Investigation
For the first time, the Bill sets a time limit. Specifically, any investigating agency must finish its probe within two months. Also, the clock starts from the day the case is recorded or referred. Furthermore, the Bill gives victims a clear path to justice.
Why This Matters
Paper leaks have hit many recruitment and entrance exams in recent years. As a result, millions of students lost time and trust. Therefore, a stronger law is vital for fair exams. Notably, Uttarakhand also passed a strict anti-copying law in 2023.
Why the Public Examinations Amendment Bill Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, exam integrity is a key governance topic for every aspirant. So, remember the new penalties, the Special Task Force and the two-month deadline. Also, compare the Bill with Uttarakhand’s anti-copying law. For official updates, also visit the Ministry of Personnel. Next, for a related story, read about the NTA reforms task force led by Nandan Nilekani.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.