The Lok Sabha on Tuesday passed the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2024, aimed at curbing paper leaks and cheating in government recruitment exams. The bill was passed by a voice vote amid a walkout by opposition parties protesting against the government's refusal to discuss rising inflation.
Opposition Demands Discussion on Price Rise
As soon as the House met for the day, opposition MPs from Congress, TMC, DMK, and other parties raised slogans demanding a detailed discussion on the rising prices of essential commodities. They argued that the common man is bearing the brunt of inflation and that the government should address the issue urgently. Speaker Om Birla, however, insisted on taking up the listed business, including the anti-paper leak bill.
Bill Provisions and Penalties
The bill prescribes a maximum imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to Rs 1 crore for those found guilty of leaking exam papers or engaging in organized cheating rackets. It also mandates the setting up of a national technical committee to recommend measures to enhance security and transparency in examination processes. The bill was introduced by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
Walkout and Adjournment
Frustrated by the Speaker's refusal to allow a discussion on inflation, opposition members walked out of the House just before the voting on the bill. The bill was then passed with the support of NDA members. Later, both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned for the day amid continued protests by opposition parties.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, "This bill is a historic step to protect the interests of millions of students who appear for competitive exams. We have zero tolerance for paper leaks."
Reaction from Opposition
Congress MP Manickam Tagore said, "We support the anti-paper leak bill, but the government must address the larger issue of unemployment and price rise. The walkout was to register our protest against the government's indifference."
