Heated Lok Sabha Debate on Anti Paper Leak Bill as Opposition Targets Government Over Exam Scandals
Opposition leaders accused the Centre of failing to prevent paper leaks and questioned the handling of student protests, while the government defended proposed legal reforms.
New Delhi: The Lok Sabha witnessed an intense and lengthy debate on the Anti Paper Leak Amendment Bill after Speaker Om Birla accepted the Opposition’s demand for a ten hour discussion. Members from the Congress, Samajwadi Party, and Trinamool Congress strongly criticised the government over repeated examination paper leaks, the police response to student protests, and the condition of the country’s education system.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said that despite the law enacted in 2024, no one accused in major paper leak cases had been convicted. She alleged that students protesting peacefully were being targeted while those responsible for leaking examination papers continued to escape punishment.
She also referred to students injured during recent demonstrations, saying their condition was deeply disturbing. Priyanka questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over who authorised the use of pellet guns and tear gas against students, particularly women protesters. She described the repeated paper leak incidents as a theft of young people’s dreams.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav accused both the Uttar Pradesh and Union governments of weakening educational institutions. He claimed that institutions established in the names of freedom fighters were being deliberately targeted. Referring to the student movement, he said the united protests had shown that even the most powerful governments could be compelled to respond to public pressure.
Trinamool Congress MP Abhishek Banerjee said that dozens of examinations, including CBSE and NEET, had witnessed paper leak controversies over the past twelve years, yet no accused had been punished. He criticised the government for not maintaining comprehensive data on such incidents despite its technological capabilities. His remarks triggered repeated interruptions in the House, prompting TMC MP Mahua Moitra to urge the Speaker to restore order.
Senior Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi questioned why the leadership of the National Testing Agency continued in office despite repeated controversies. He alleged that the government was shielding senior officials and argued that increasing punishments alone would not resolve the crisis. Gogoi said the government must also address growing anxiety among students and the rising number of student suicides.
Responding on behalf of the government, Union Minister of State Dr Jitendra Singh said the proposed amendment would establish special fast track courts to handle paper leak cases. He said investigations would be completed within two months and courts would deliver judgments within three months, ensuring that cases are concluded within five months.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju assured the House that the government was prepared to answer every question related to the legislation and remained committed to protecting the future of students.