New Bill In Lok Sabha To Stop Malpractices In Public Exams. Let’s Decode

NEW DELHI: Malpractices in public examinations and entrance tests disrupt fairness, delay results, and harm countless students’ futures.

The Indian government’s proposed Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, aims to tackle this issue head-on.

This model legislation empowers states to effectively combat exam cheating and safeguard the integrity of their public examination systems. It does so by:

Creating a Robust Law: Currently, no central law specifically addresses unfair practices in public exams. This bill fills that gap, empowering the government to take action against individuals, groups, and institutions involved in cheating.

Protecting Students: It’s important to note that the bill specifically excludes students from its purview. They will continue to be governed by existing administrative regulations of the examining bodies.

Strengthening Enforcement: Key provisions include:

Expanded Scope: Covers exams conducted by UPSC, SSC, RRBs, IBPS, and other central government bodies, with potential expansion to state-level exams.

Stricter Regulations: Makes all offenses under the act cognisable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable.

Clear Penalties: Unfair means will be punishable with imprisonment ranging from 3 to 5 years and a fine of up to Rs 10 lakh.

Organized crimes involving individuals, groups, or institutions carry imprisonment of 5 to 10 years and a fine of at least Rs 1 crore.

Institutions involved may face property attachment and forfeiture.

Accountability Measures: The bill emphasizes thorough investigations and swift action against offenders.

Overall, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, represents a significant step towards ensuring the fairness and credibility of public examinations in India.

By deterring cheaters and punishing offenders, this legislation aims to create a level playing field for all students and build trust in the education system.