NationalSaturday, 25 July 2026·The Hindu - National
Public Examinations Act 2024 amended: tougher jail, ₹10 crore fine and fast-track courts for paper leaks
The Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, raising penalties and enabling fast-track courts.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In July 2026, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, after the law came into force on June 21, 2024, to curb paper leaks in national examinations.
Key specifics
- Organised examination fraud punishment was raised from 3-5 years to 5-10 years of imprisonment.
- Maximum fine for organised rackets was increased to ₹10 crore.
- The law now provides statutory backing for dedicated fast-track courts.
- Fast-track courts are to complete investigation, disposal and judgment within 3 months.
- The Act covers UPSC, SSC, NTA, RRB, IBPS and Central government Department Recruitment Boards.
Exam lens
Polity and governance question type: match the law, year and penalty. TNPSC may ask about the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, its June 21, 2024 commencement, 5-10 year jail term, and ₹10 crore fine.