What does the Anti-Paper Leak Amendment Act, 2026 provide?

After the NEET-UG 2026 leak and nationwide protests, Parliament passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026. It strengthens the original 2024 law.

Timeline:

• Introduced in the Lok Sabha on 27 July 2026 by Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh
• Passed by the Lok Sabha on 29 July and the Rajya Sabha on 30 July 2026, both by voice vote amid Opposition walkouts
• Became law after the President's assent

Key provisions:

• Jail terms of five to ten years for those convicted of paper leaks and exam fraud
• Fines of up to ₹50 lakh for individuals
• Fines of up to ₹10 crore for organised exam fraud networks, along with seizure of property
• Investigations to be completed within two months
• Fast-track or special courts for time-bound trials
• Offences are cognisable, non-bailable and non-compoundable

During the debate, the government said 52 FIRs had been registered since the 2024 law came into force. Critics argued that stricter punishment alone won't solve the problem unless exam conduct, printing, transport and digital security are improved.