What happened: Presidential assent to the 2026 unfair-means amendment
President Droupadi Murmu gave assent to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, through a Union Law Ministry gazette notification dated Friday.
The amended law focuses on faster prosecution and stronger punishment for public examination paper-leak cases and other unfair means used in such examinations.
Key features of the amended law (as reported)
The amendment includes the following enforceable features:
State power to set up fast-track courts: States are empowered to establish fast-track courts for speedy trials in public examination paper-leak cases.Time limit on investigation: Investigations into paper leak cases must be completed within two months.Minimum–maximum jail term: The amendment provides for imprisonment ranging from five to 10 years for individuals involved in paper leaks or unfair means.Fines: Punishment includes fines up to ₹50 lakh.
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