In response to the NEET paper leak protests, the government has implemented significant reforms to enhance the integrity of its examination system.
Amid the ongoing students’ protest over the NEET paper leak controversy, the Centre has announced a series of sweeping measures aimed at restoring credibility to the country’s examination system. In what government sources described as a comprehensive response, six key decisions have been taken over the past 24 hours, ranging from legal reforms and administrative changes to bring reforms in the education system.
The developments came as the central government is facing mounting criticism over alleged irregularities in competitive examinations. Meanwhile, despite protests, sources have maintained that Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan will continue in office.
Key Decisions Taken By Govt In Past 24 Hours
1. Fast-Track Courts For Exam Frauds
The government has decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure the speedy trial of cases related to examination malpractices and paper leaks, aiming at expediting prosecutions and strengthening deterrence against organised exam fraud. In fact, the Delhi High Court also notified a designated court to deal with criminal cases arising from paper leaks as well as the use of other unfair means in public examinations.
The move came after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday announced that his government will set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leak cases. He also asserted that protecting the welfare and future of the country’s youth remains the government’s top priority.
2. Fresh Bill To Strengthen Anti-Paper Leak Law
The Union Cabinet on Friday approved the anti-paper leak bill, which proposes stricter punishment, increased jail time and fines on the accused. The proposed bill is set to be introduced on Monday in the ongoing Monsoon Session in Parliament.
According to sources, the government is considering significantly increasing punishments for offences related to paper leaks. Under the existing law, standard offences attract three to five years’ imprisonment and fines of up to Rs 10 lakh. The new Bill is expected to prescribe substantially higher jail terms and steeper financial penalties.
3. Education Secretary Replaced
In a key administrative reshuffle, the Centre on Thursday changed the Education Secretary as part of its efforts to improve oversight and accountability within the education ecosystem. The government appointed IAS Naresh Pal Gangwar as the new secretary of the Department of Higher Education, replacing Vineet Joshi, who has now been transferred to the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
4. 47 NTA Officials Removed
The government has removed 47 officials of the National Testing Agency (NTA) in what is being seen as one of the biggest administrative actions following the controversy. The move is part of a wider exercise to identify and rectify shortcomings within the examination body.
5. No Cases Against Protesters
According to sources, the government has accepted CJP’s demand of removing criminal cases registered against students or others who participated in protests over the NEET paper leak issue.
