Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the Union Cabinet will take up a draft legislation proposing stricter measures against examination paper leaks, including provisions for fast-track courts and enhanced punishment for offenders. In a video message released shortly before midnight on Thursday, the Prime Minister said the government intends to introduce the Bill in Parliament after Cabinet approval and seek its early passage during the ongoing Monsoon Session.

The announcement comes amid nationwide concern over the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, which has triggered protests by students and political parties, while investigative agencies continue to probe the case.

Midnight Video Message

In the nearly three-minute video shared on social media, the Prime Minister said examination paper leaks have caused immense hardship to lakhs of students and their families.

He said the government's immediate priority after the alleged leak was to ensure that students did not lose an academic year. According to the Prime Minister, examinations for around 22 lakh candidates were conducted within a short period and the results were declared on July 19.

Bill To Be Discussed

The Prime Minister said the concerned departments had prepared a draft containing provisions for fast-track courts and stricter punishment for those involved in paper leak cases.

He stated that the draft would be discussed by the Union Cabinet before being finalised and introduced in Parliament during the current session.

Fast-Track Courts Planned

Reiterating the government's stand, Mr. Modi said paper leak offences require speedy investigation and trial.

The proposed reforms include the establishment of fast-track courts to ensure quicker disposal of cases and prompt punishment for those found guilty. He added that the government would continue taking strong action against individuals involved in compromising public examinations.

Political Reactions

The announcement drew immediate political responses.

Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi criticised the Prime Minister's video, saying the government's response did not address demands for accountability. He reiterated the Opposition's demand for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Representatives of the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) also maintained that stronger political accountability was necessary, while continuing their protest over the alleged examination irregularities.

Administrative Changes

The developments come alongside recent administrative changes within the Union Education Ministry.

The Centre has reshuffled senior officials, appointing Naresh Pal Gangwar as Secretary, Department of Higher Education, while T.K. Anil Kumar has been appointed Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy as part of a wider bureaucratic restructuring.

Existing Anti-Leak Law

India already has the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, which provides penalties for paper leaks, organised cheating, and examination fraud.

The law prescribes imprisonment and financial penalties for offenders, while organised syndicates can face stricter punishment. Offences under the Act are non-bailable and require investigation by senior police officers.