Lok Sabha passes anti-paper leak bill

The India — Lok Sabha passed the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, on July 29, 2026, tightening the anti-paper leak framework with stricter penalties including up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to Rs 50 lakh for individuals, and up to Rs 10 crore for organized crime. The bill, introduced by Union Minister Jitendra Singh (politician) on July 27, mandates fast-track courts, time-bound investigations (2 months), and trials (3 months). It covers examinations conducted by agencies like UPSC, SSC, NTA, railways, and banking recruitment bodies. The bill was passed amid opposition protests and follows the NEET paper leak controversy that led to the resignation of former Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. The government reported 52 FIRs registered under the 2024 law. The bill now moves to the India — Rajya Sabha.