The issue of paper leaks is escalating by the day, with students across the country expressing significant anger over the matter. While protests against the recurring paper leaks continue at Jantar Mantar, reports have emerged that the government is preparing to take a major decision. Politics surrounding the issue has also intensified; the government has promised to take measures for the students’ benefit and reform the education system, while the opposition is fiercely targeting the administration. From students to the opposition, there is an uproar extending from the streets to Parliament.
Amidst this, the Prime Minister released a video message late last night, assuring students that the perpetrators involved in the paper leaks would be punished and announcing that a new bill—featuring provisions for severe penalties and fines against paper leaks—would be introduced in Parliament. PM Modi shared this message via a video on the social media platform X at approximately 11:52 PM. In the post, he stated: “More strict actions against paper leaks to come in tomorrow’s Cabinet!”
PM Modi’s Major Decision on Paper Leaks
Prime Minister Modi has made a significant decision regarding paper leaks. In a video message, he announced plans to introduce a new bill in Parliament to tackle the issue. The proposed bill may include provisions for establishing fast-track courts to hear cases related to paper leaks. There is talk of introducing this bill during the upcoming monsoon session. Preparations are underway to empower these fast-track courts with stricter laws and enhanced authority.
Increased Penalties and Fines in the New Bill
The upcoming bill addressing paper leaks will incorporate provisions for both imprisonment and fines. Those found guilty of paper leaks will face harsher punishments and substantial financial penalties. Under current regulations, the penalty for paper leaks involves a prison term of 3 to 5 years and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh. Following amendments, the proposed new bill entails fines of up to ₹1 crore for those found guilty in paper leak cases. Additionally, the prison term for such offenses is set to increase from the current 3–5 years to a range of 5–10 years. The central government’s objective behind introducing this new bill is to toughen the law and curb paper leaks.
Sonam Wangchuk Ends Hunger Strike
Sonam Wangchuk has ended the hunger strike he had been observing for 26 days. Meanwhile, however, the protest at Jantar Mantar—led by students and the ‘Cockroach Janata Party’ (CJP) regarding the NEET paper leak—continues. The CJP has stated that the protest will not end until the Education Minister resigns. The opposition, too, appears to be mobilizing against the issue, both inside and outside Parliament.
