INTRODUCTION:
The Lok Sabha recently passed the ‘Prevention of Unfair Means Bill, 2024’, aimed at curbing malpractices in various examinations including UPSC, SSC, NEET, JEE, and CUET. The legislation, supported by members across party lines, targets organized malpractices and paper leaks, safeguarding the merit of youth and ensuring the well-being of children.
During the discussion on the Bill in the Lok Sabha, Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, along with his roles in various other ministries, highlighted the rampant malpractices plaguing examinations across the country. He pointed out incidents of paper leaks, impersonation, and scams in states like Rajasthan and West Bengal, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.
Dr. Singh underscored the non-partisan nature of the matter, asserting unity among members of the House in recognizing the need to combat corruption in examinations. He emphasized that the proposed bill aims to thwart the destructive actions of a few dishonest individuals, which not only jeopardize the future of youth but also tragically lead to fatal consequences like suicides.
This statement reflects the collective commitment to safeguarding the integrity of examinations and ensuring a fair environment for all aspiring candidates, transcending political affiliations for the betterment of the nation’s youth.
KEY POINTS:
- Objective: The bill aims to tackle paper leaks, impersonation, and other malpractices in recruitment and entrance examinations, ensuring a fair playing field for all candidates.
- Government’s Initiative: Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the Modi government’s commitment to youth-centric policies, including transparency in recruitment and equal opportunity in higher education.
- Scope: The bill covers examinations conducted by various agencies, including UPSC, SSC, railways, banking, and those by the National Testing Agency.
- Penalties: It proposes stringent penalties, including imprisonment ranging from three to five years for cheating, and higher terms for organised crimes, along with hefty fines.
- Protection of Candidates: While targeting organised malpractices, the bill ensures that candidates themselves are not penalised unjustly.
- Future Outlook: Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the importance of securing the future of youth, who are essential stakeholders in the vision of a developed India by 2047.
The passing of this bill signifies a significant step towards maintaining the integrity of examinations and promoting fairness in the education system.
SOURCE:
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