Lok Sabha Passes Anti-Paper Leak Bill After Marathon Debate Amid Opposition Protests

The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed the Anti-Paper Leak Bill by a voice vote after nearly 10 hours of debate, despite strong protests from the Opposition during the Monsoon Session of Parliament.

The legislation, aimed at curbing question paper leaks and examination-related fraud, was passed amid heated exchanges between the ruling NDA and Opposition members. Following the passage of the Bill, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla announced its approval and adjourned the House.

Heated Debate in Parliament

The debate witnessed repeated confrontations between the government and the Opposition, with proceedings disrupted over a speech by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi.

Responding during the discussion, Union Minister Jitendra Singh accused the Opposition of politicising an important reform. He said that instead of offering constructive suggestions on a significant piece of legislation, the Opposition chose to indulge in political rhetoric. Singh also criticised the language used by Rahul Gandhi during the debate.

Stricter Punishment for Paper Leaks

The Bill introduces tougher penalties to deter examination malpractices.

Under the new provisions:

• Convicted offenders can face up to 10 years of imprisonment.
• Fines of up to ₹10 crore can be imposed.
• Those responsible for disrupting examinations will also be liable to compensate for losses caused.

Fast-Track Courts for Speedy Justice

One of the key features of the legislation is the establishment of special fast-track courts in every state and Union Territory to ensure the swift disposal of paper leak cases.

The Bill mandates:

• Investigation to be completed within two months of an FIR being registered.
• Trial to conclude within three months of filing the charge sheet.

Stronger Than Existing Law

The amended law significantly strengthens the existing legal framework. While the current law, implemented from June 21, 2024, provides imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines up to ₹10 lakh, the new legislation raises the maximum punishment to 10 years in prison and ₹10 crore in fines.

For organised examination fraud, penalties have also been enhanced, reflecting the government’s attempt to crack down on large-scale paper leak rackets and restore public confidence in recruitment and competitive examinations.