Anti Cheating and Curb Paper Leak - Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024

Introduction

-  Introduced by the central government to prevent unfair means in public examinations

-  Presented by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh

-  Aims to curb paper leaks and cheating in recruitment exams and entrance tests

Objectives

-  Statement of Objects and Reasons cites frequent leaks affecting many candidates

-  Enhance transparency, fairness and credibility in public exams

-  Deter elements from organised cheating

-  Ensure genuine efforts of youth are rewarded

-  Secure futures of deserving students

Projected Outcomes

-  Prevent deserving candidates from losing opportunities due to unfair means

-  Level the playing field and reward hardworking students

-  Tackle paper leaks, impersonation and cheating rackets

-  Enhance credibility of public examination systems through strict punishment

Definition of Public Examination

-  Exam conducted by authorities listed in the Schedule or notified by the government

-  Schedule lists 5 key exam conducting bodies:

-  UPSC, SSC, RRBs, IBPS, NTA

-  Covers major exams like civil services, SSC, RRB, bank, engineering, medical etc.

Punishments

-  All offences are cognizable, non-bailable and non-compoundable

-  3-5 years jail plus up to Rs 10 lakh fine

-  Additional jail for failure to pay fine

-  Up to Rs 1 crore fine for service providers like coaching centers

Punishment for Organised Crime

-  5-10 years jail for organised groups conspiring for wrongful gain

-  Minimum Rs 1 crore fine

- Tackles