Anti Paper Leak Law: The government recently introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 to tackle the serious issues of cheating and leaked exam papers. This move comes after controversies surrounding exams such as NEET and UGC-NET, which have been criticized for paper leaks and other irregularities.
The main goal of this new law is to ensure fairness in exams conducted by important organizations like UPSC, SSC, railways, banking recruitment exams, and NTA. It aims to prevent any kind of unfair practices that could undermine the integrity of these public exams. This includes measures to detect and stop cheating, ensuring that all students have a fair chance during these crucial exams.
What Is Anti Paper Leak Law?
Under the new anti-paper leak regulations, severe penalties await those involved in exam fraud. Those caught leaking papers could be jailed for up to 10 years and fined Rs 1 crore. Meanwhile, individuals caught impersonating others during exams may face 3 to 5 years in prison and a Rs 10 lakh fine.
In addition, any educational institution implicated in such malpractices will be liable to reimburse the entire examination costs. Furthermore, their property could be seized as per the Indian Judicial Code, with the provisions of the Indian Penal Code remaining effective upon enactment. These laws, including other criminal statutes, are set to take effect starting July 1.
Also Read: CSIR-UGC-NET Exam Postponed Due to Paper Leak Controversy
Anti Paper Leak Law Rules
The new law aims to prevent cheating in exams through several key measures:
Harsher Penalties: Those caught leaking exam papers or tampering with answer sheets could face a minimum of three years in jail, which could extend up to five years. Offenders may also be fined up to Rs 10 lakh.
Non-Bailable Offences: Any offence under the law is considered serious, making it possible for authorities to arrest suspects without a warrant. Those arrested may not have the right to seek bail immediately.
Accountability for Providers: Exam service providers who are aware of potential cheating but do not report it could face fines as high as Rs 1 crore.
Targeting Organized Crime: The law takes a tough stance against organized cheating rings. Senior officials involved in such activities could face between three to ten years in prison, along with a Rs 1 crore fine. Examination authorities or service providers involved in organized malpractice may face imprisonment ranging from five to ten years, also with a Rs 1 crore fine.
Protection for the Innocent: The law provides safeguards for individuals who can prove they were unaware of any cheating and made efforts to prevent it.
This legislation introduces strict measures to deter exam malpractice and ensure fairness in public exams.
Impact of This Law on The Candidate
This law will not affect candidates appearing in competitive exams. During the bill’s introduction in Parliament, Union Minister Jitendra Singh clarified that candidates are specifically exempted from this law.
The Anti Paper Leak Law aims to ensure fairness in public exams and prevent actions that jeopardize the future of young people. Hence, candidates in competitive exams are not subject to any provisions of this law.
NEET and UGC-NET Updates
The National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) and the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) are vital exams for those aiming for careers in academics and medicine, respectively.
NEET, which took place on May 5 with approximately 24 lakh candidates, faced allegations of question paper leaks, especially in Bihar. Meanwhile, UGC-NET was canceled due to concerns over exam integrity.
In light of these events, the NTA recently announced the postponement of the June session of the Joint CSIR-UGC-NET. This decision was made due to unavoidable circumstances and logistical challenges. This test determines eligibility for junior research fellowships, assistant professorships, and PhD admissions in science-related courses.
| Also Read: |
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| NTA Clarifies NEET Result Controversy Amid Toppers and High Cut-Off Debate |
| Supreme Court to NTA on NEET-UG 2024 Paper Leak Allegations |
Anti Paper Leak Law FAQs
Q.1. Who does the Anti Paper Leak Law affect?
Ans. Anti Paper Leak Law primarily targets individuals involved in exam fraud and organizations facilitating cheating.
Q.2. What are the penalties under this Anti Paper Leak law?
Ans. Offenders may face up to 10 years in jail and fines up to Rs 1 crore for leaking papers or impersonation.
Q.3. Does the law affect candidates in competitive exams?
Ans. No, candidates in competitive exams are exempt from the provisions of this law.
Q.4. What measures are included to prevent cheating?
Ans. The law introduces harsh penalties, non-bailable offences, and accountability for exam service providers.
Q.5. How does this law impact exams like NEET and UGC-NET?
Ans. These exams face scrutiny for paper leaks, prompting measures to ensure integrity and fairness.
