Government Implements New Law to Curb Cheating in Public Examinations and Entrance Tests

In response to rampant allegations of malpractice in crucial examinations like NEET and UGC NET, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 came into effect on Friday, June 21. The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions confirmed the enforcement date through a gazette notification, asserting the Act’s provisions to ensure transparency and credibility in public exams.

This legislation, passed during the Budget session on February 10 and assented by President Droupadi Murmu on February 13, aims to eradicate unfair practices that undermine the integrity of examinations. It targets assessments conducted by entities like the Union Public Service Commission, Staff Selection Commission, Railway Recruitment Board, National Testing Agency, Institute of Banking Personnel Selection, and other central government bodies responsible for recruitment.

Key components of the Act include strict regulations against premature disclosure of exam-related information and prevention of unauthorized persons from entering exam centers to disrupt proceedings. Violations carry severe penalties, including imprisonment ranging from three to five years and fines up to Rs 10 lakh.

The enactment of this law underscores the government’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of public examinations and providing a level playing field for all candidates. This initiative is poised to bolster the credibility of India’s examination systems by fostering an environment of fairness and accountability.