New Himachal law entails 3-year jail for cheating in exams, other malpractices

TNR News Network
Shimla:
In a major step to clamp down on exam malpractices and bring transparency to recruitment processes, the Himachal Pradesh government has approved a stringent bill aimed at tackling cheating, organised fraud and paper leaks in competitive exams. The move comes in response to several high-profile paper leak scandals in recent years that have adversely affected thousands of candidates across the state.

Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said that the state cabinet had cleared a significant legislation that proposes strict penalties for those involved in cheating or helping others to cheat in recruitment and selection exams. The bill, set to be tabled in the upcoming monsoon session of the Vidhan Sabha, aims to restore public trust and protect the future of the state’s youth.

“The bill will bring much-needed transparency to selection exams and send a strong message to those attempting to manipulate the system for personal gain,” said Minister Negi.

The bill includes provisions for up to three years of imprisonment for individuals found guilty of involvement in paper leaks or organised cheating. It is particularly targeted at preventing scams like those that previously plagued the Himachal Pradesh Staff Selection Commission (HPSSC) in Hamirpur where several examinations were marred by irregularities and leaks.