PM Modi announces strict anti-paper leak legislation; to be tabled in Parliament next week after today’s Cabinet decision

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced that the Centre has prepared a comprehensive draft legislation to introduce stricter provisions and harsher punishments for paper leak cases, with the proposal set to be considered by the Union Cabinet on Friday before being introduced in Parliament next week.

In a video message posted on his official X account, the Prime Minister said, “More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrow’s Cabinet!”

Expressing concern over the impact of examination paper leaks on students and their families, PM Modi said the Union government has taken several measures over the past two-and-a-half months, resulting in the arrest and imprisonment of those responsible for such offences.

“I am aware that paper leaks cause immense distress to students and their parents,” he said.

Highlighting the government’s efforts to safeguard the interests of candidates, the Prime Minister said all available resources were mobilised to ensure that examinations for nearly 22 lakh students were conducted without delay. He added that the results, declared on July 19, had brought relief and happiness to successful candidates across the country.

“The results were declared just five days ago on July 19, and we are receiving news of the joy felt by successful students across the country,” he said.

PM Modi said the government would continue strengthening the examination system and had prepared a proposal providing for fast-track courts and stringent penalties for those involved in examination malpractices.

“This matter is likely to be discussed in the Cabinet tomorrow, and the proposal will be finalised after incorporating suggestions from Cabinet colleagues,” he said.

He further stated that the government would seek to introduce and pass the legislation at the earliest during the second week of the ongoing Parliament session, beginning Monday.

According to sources, the proposed Bill is expected to provide for enhanced penalties for paper leak offences, time-bound trials through fast-track special courts, and stronger accountability for institutions and individuals involved in examination-related fraud.

The proposed legislation comes amid growing public concern over recurring paper leaks in competitive entrance and recruitment examinations. The Centre expects the new law to strengthen the integrity of the examination system and restore confidence among millions of aspirants preparing for competitive tests.