EXAM LEAK CRISIS: A NATIONWIDE PREDICAMENT

Why in the News?

  • Investigative efforts by The Indian Express reveal 41 documented instances of exam leaks in 15 states over the past five years.
  • Approximately 1.4 crore job seekers across various states have been adversely affected, vying for over 1.04 lakh positions.
Source: IE

Anti-Cheating Legislation:

  • Several states introduced laws and ordinances in 2023 to combat exam malpractices.
  • Prominent states like Rajasthan amended laws, increasing maximum punishment to life imprisonment.
  • Despite legislative measures, leaks persisted, prompting further legal amendments.
About Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill 2024

·    Objective: Addressing paper leaks and organized cheating in public exams like UPSC, SSC, railways, NEET, JEE, and CUET.

·    Drafting Authority: Department of Personnel and Training is responsible for formulating the proposed legislation.

·    Proposed Penalties: Imprisonment duration ranges from 3 to 5 years, extending to 5 to 10 years for organized crimes related to exam malpractices.

·    Fines and Bans: Service providers may face fines up to Rs 1 crore and a four-year ban on conducting public exams.

·    Penalties for Institutions and Individuals: Those involved in organized crimes may face fines, property attachment, and examination cost recovery.

·    National Technical Committee: To develop protocols for digital platforms, enhance IT security, and ensure comprehensive electronic surveillance at examination centers.