Rahul Gandhi Calls Anti-Paper Leak Bill a ‘Band-Aid’ When Students Need ‘Surgery’

July 29, 2026

New Delhi: Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday criticised the Centre’s Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, calling it a temporary solution to a deeper problem in India’s education system.

During the debate in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi said the Bill was like a “band-aid” when students needed a complete “surgery” of the examination system. He alleged that the government was focusing on punishment after paper leaks instead of addressing the larger issues affecting students.

Rahul Gandhi Questions Government’s Approach

Gandhi argued that merely introducing stricter laws would not solve the challenges faced by students appearing for competitive examinations. He demanded wider reforms to ensure transparency, accountability and fairness in the recruitment and examination process.

He said that millions of young aspirants spend years preparing for exams, and any irregularity in the system affects their careers and future opportunities.

Attack Over NEET Controversy and Exam System

The Congress leader referred to recent controversies surrounding competitive examinations, including allegations of paper leaks and irregularities, while accusing the government of failing to protect students’ interests.

He said student protests across the country reflected genuine concerns and urged political parties to listen to the voices of young people.

Centre Defends Anti-Paper Leak Legislation

The government has maintained that the amended Bill aims to strengthen the examination system by introducing stricter punishments, faster investigations and greater accountability for individuals and organisations involved in unfair practices.

The proposed amendments increase penalties for paper leaks, cheating networks and service providers involved in examination fraud, while introducing provisions for quicker trials through special courts.

The Bill was introduced to restore confidence among students and ensure greater transparency in public examinations.