The Indian government has introduced the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 in the Lok Sabha to strengthen the country's first dedicated law against exam cheating, paper leaks, and organized exam fraud. This amendment significantly increases punishments across all categories of offenders compared to the 2024 Act.
For individual offenders, jail terms have been increased from 3-5 years to 5-10 years, while fines have been raised from up to ₹10 lakh to up to ₹50 lakh. Service providers now face fines of up to ₹5 crore (increased from ₹1 crore) and an 8-year ban from conducting public examinations (extended from 4 years). Directors and senior management face jail terms of 5-10 years (previously 3-10 years) with fines increased from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore. Organized crime syndicates now face jail terms of 7-10 years (increased from 5-10 years) with minimum fines of ₹10 crore (increased from ₹1 crore).
The Bill introduces new investigation mechanisms allowing the Central Government to set up dedicated Special Task Forces for exam fraud cases. All investigations, whether by police, Central Investigating Agencies, or Special Task Forces, must be completed within two months from the date of case registration, referral, or notification of the task force.
A major addition is the requirement for every State and Union Territory to designate a Court of Session as a Special Fast Track Court in consultation with the concerned High Court's Chief Justice. These courts must hear cases day-to-day without unnecessary breaks and complete trials within three months of chargesheet filing. All pending cases will be transferred to these courts and must be completed within three months of transfer. States must also appoint Special Public Prosecutors dedicated to these cases.
The Bill establishes a clear appellate process where appeals against judgments, sentences, or orders (except routine interim orders) go directly to the High Court. Appeals must be heard by a bench of two judges and disposed of within three months of admission. Bail orders can be appealed directly to the High Court, with appeals normally filed within 30 days (maximum 90 days with permission). No other appeals or revisions can be filed in any other court, ensuring a quick and final process.
The amendments aim to create a time-bound system from investigation to trial, with the goal of providing faster justice and greater deterrence against exam fraud, thereby protecting the integrity of India's public examination system that millions of students depend on for their future.