The Lok Sabha passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, on Wednesday, introducing stricter penalties and faster judicial processes to combat examination malpractice. The legislation increases prison terms for convicted individuals to between five and 10 years, with fines reaching up to Rs 50 lakh. Service providers involved in irregularities now face penalties of Rs 5 crore and an eight-year ban.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh defended the amendments, stating they reflect the government's commitment to the integrity and credibility of public examinations. He noted that 52 FIRs have been registered since the original law was enacted in 2024, adding that the new provisions mandate time-bound investigations and trials within three months of filing a charge sheet.
The bill's passage followed a heated debate, which was repeatedly disrupted by protests from Treasury benches. These disruptions were triggered by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, who alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah was responsible for the use of force against students protesting in Delhi. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju rejected the claims as false and demanded an apology, while the House was adjourned for the day following the bill's approval.
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