Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026

What is the Bill?

• The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 amends the 2024 anti-cheating law to tackle exam fraud, paper leaks and organised cheating networks.

• It was introduced after controversies over NEET-UG paper leaks and aims to ensure transparent, merit-based recruitment and admissions.

• The Bill focuses on time-bound investigation and speedy trials.

Why was the Bill introduced?

• The NEET-UG 2024 paper leak exposed organised syndicates involved in examination fraud.

• Despite the 2024 Act, concerns over accountability continued after further exam irregularities, leading to demands for stricter provisions.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Time-bound Investigation & Trial

• Investigation must be completed within 60 days by police, central agencies or Special Task Force.

• Trials must conclude within 3 months after filing of chargesheet in special fast-track courts.

• Appeals in High Courts to be decided by a two-judge Division Bench within 3 months.

2. Enhanced Penalties

• General offences:

  • 2024 Act: 3–5 years imprisonment + ₹10 lakh fine

  • 2026 Bill: 5–10 years imprisonment + ₹50 lakh fine

• Service providers:

  • Fine increased from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore.

  • Debarment period increased from 4 years to 8 years.

• Organised crime networks:

  • Minimum imprisonment increased from 5 to 7 years.

  • Fine increased up to ₹10 crore.

How does it prevent procedural delays?

• Adjournments beyond the next day are restricted except in exceptional circumstances.

• Existing cases under the 2024 Act will be transferred to special fast-track courts.

• States/UTs must appoint special public prosecutors for these cases.

Major Limitation

• The Bill fixes a 60-day investigation timeline but does not specify accountability if the deadline is missed.

• It does not require officers to record reasons for delays.

• This may conflict with Supreme Court views that criminal proceedings cannot always have rigid time limits.

Challenges before Fast-Track Courts

• Large pendency of cases remains a major issue.

• Existing fast-track courts face:

  • Shortage of judges and staff

  • Frequent adjournments

  • Non-appearance of accused and witnesses

  • Delays in police investigation and evidence production

Common Trial Court Bottlenecks (Law Commission)

• Absence of accused persons and undertrial prisoners.

• Failure to arrest absconding accused.

• Unnecessary adjournments by lawyers.

• Non-appearance of government witnesses.

• Weak judicial case management and inadequate infrastructure.

Difference from 2024 Act

Conclusion

The 2026 Bill strengthens the fight against examination fraud through higher penalties, faster investigation and special courts. However, its success depends on effective implementation, judicial capacity and accountability mechanisms to avoid delays.