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. |