The Lok Sabha is set to hold a six-hour debate on the proposed Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, with the legislation expected to be one of the key highlights of the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament. The announcement was made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Saugata Roy, who said the decision was taken after discussions between political parties and an appeal by the Lok Sabha Speaker to ensure smooth functioning of the House.
Speaking to reporters in New Delhi, Roy said the Speaker had appealed to all parties to allow Parliament to function, following which it was agreed that a dedicated six-hour discussion on the anti-paper leak legislation would take place. The bill was introduced in the Lok Sabha on Monday by Union Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Jitendra Singh, amid repeated disruptions and sloganeering by Opposition members, forcing the House to adjourn before any detailed debate could begin.
The proposed amendment seeks to strengthen the existing Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, by introducing stricter measures to curb examination paper leaks and other forms of malpractice. Key provisions include time-bound investigations, the creation of Special Task Forces, establishment of Fast-Track Courts, appointment of Special Public Prosecutors, enhanced prison terms and financial penalties, and a streamlined appeals process to ensure quicker justice in cases related to examination fraud.
The debate comes against the backdrop of widespread concern over recent examination paper leak cases and protests by students demanding greater accountability and transparency in the recruitment and examination system. Parliament has witnessed repeated disruptions during the Monsoon Session, with Opposition parties also raising concerns over alleged police action against protesting students. The government has urged all parties to participate in the discussion, saying the legislation is aimed at protecting the integrity of public examinations and safeguarding the future of millions of students.
Apart from commenting on the proposed debate, Saugata Roy also criticised former Trinamool Congress MPs who have joined other political formations, alleging that they had betrayed the mandate on which they were elected. Meanwhile, the government remains hopeful that the six-hour discussion will allow members across party lines to debate the bill comprehensively before the House takes it up for further consideration.
