Indian Paper Leak Act 2024 Punishments for Leakage of Question Paper or Answer Key, New Law Against Examination Malpractices Enforced from June 21, 2024.
The Union Government has announced the enforcement of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, starting from June 21. Although the Parliament passed the Act on February 9, 2024, it had not been implemented until now. The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions issued a notification yesterday stating, “In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of Section 1 of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 (1 of 2024), the Central government hereby appoints the 21st day of June, 2024 as the date on which the provisions of the said Act shall come into force.”
Scope and Impact of the New Indian Paper Leak Act 2024
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aims to address and mitigate various forms of cheating and fraud in government recruitment exams. This comprehensive law introduces strict penalties for individuals and entities involved in malpractices, enhancing the integrity of public examinations.
UGC-NET 2024 Exclusion from Indian Paper Leak Act 2024
Notably, the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) 2024, which was canceled on June 19 due to allegations of compromise, will not fall under the jurisdiction of the new law. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is actively investigating the circumstances leading to the cancellation of this examination.
Detailed List of Offenses for Indian Paper Leak Act 2024
The Act outlines a broad spectrum of punishable offenses to ensure comprehensive coverage of possible examination malpractices:
- Leakage of Examination Materials: Unauthorized distribution of question papers or answer keys.
- Unauthorized Assistance: Providing illegal help to candidates during public examinations.
- Tampering with Examination Systems: Interference with computer networks or systems used in public exams.
- Creation of Deceptive Websites: Setting up fake websites to deceive candidates or for financial gain.
- Fake Examinations: Organizing sham exams and issuing fraudulent admit cards or offer letters.
- Manipulation of Examination Logistics: Adjusting seating arrangements, dates, or shifts to facilitate cheating.
Penalties for Violations of Indian Paper Leak Act 2024
The Act prescribes severe penalties for those found guilty of violating its provisions. Individuals can face imprisonment for up to five years and fines up to ₹1 crore. The law aims to act as a strong deterrent against any form of examination malpractice.
Liability of Service Providers
Service providers involved in the conduct of public examinations are also held accountable under the new Act. These providers can be fined up to ₹1 crore, and the proportionate costs of the examination may also be recovered from them. Additionally, they may be barred from participating in the conduct of any public examination for up to four years.
Definitions and Responsibilities of Indian Paper Leak Act 2024
The Act defines a service provider as any agency, organization, business entity, or individual engaged by the public examination authority for the conduct of exams. This includes associated sub-contractors and providers of computer resources or materials.
Government’s Commitment to Fair Examinations
The enforcement of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, demonstrates the government’s dedication to maintaining the integrity of public examinations. By implementing this law, the government aims to deter examination malpractices, ensuring a fair and transparent recruitment process.
This move reflects the government’s response to increasing instances of examination fraud and the demand for stricter measures to uphold the standards of merit and fairness. The new law is a significant step towards restoring public confidence in the examination system.
Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024: What You Need to Know
The Union Government’s announcement regarding the enforcement of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 on June 21 marks a significant step in curbing malpractices in public exams across India.
Understanding the Act
Key Provisions
The Act targets several forms of misconduct, including:
- Question Paper Leakage: Severe penalties for the unauthorized release of exam materials.
- Candidate Assistance: Prohibits any unauthorized aid provided to exam takers.
- Computer System Tampering: Covers offenses related to tampering with exam-related systems.
- Institutional Responsibility: Extends liabilities to institutions involved in such malpractices.
Scope and Application
The Act applies strictly from June 21, 2024, forward and does not retroactively impact previous incidents. This measure comes amidst rising concerns over exam integrity following recent high-profile paper leaks.
Implications and Penalties
Individual Offenses
Individuals found guilty face imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines up to ₹10 lakh, depending on the severity of the offense.
Institutional Accountability
Entities providing exam-related services can be fined up to ₹1 crore, along with additional costs incurred during the examination process.
Conclusion
The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, marks a crucial development in the fight against examination malpractices. With its strict penalties and comprehensive definitions of offenses, the law seeks to protect the integrity of public examinations and ensure a level playing field for all candidates. The government’s proactive approach underscores its commitment to fair and transparent recruitment processes, setting a new standard for the conduct of public examinations.