Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday promised stricter laws on the paper leak issue and reforms in the special Union Cabinet meeting to be held on Friday and a bill during the ongoing Monsoon Session of Parliament amid widespread protests over the issue. In a late-night video message to students amid widespread protests over the paper leak issue, the Prime Minister said the government is concerned about the students and has strict actions on the issue, including announcing the formation of fast-track courts to deal with such cases.
"Paper leak is not a normal issue; it is painful for lakhs of students. Several key steps have been taken against paper leaks; the accused have been caught, and they are behind bars. We didn't want to waste a year of the candidates. That's why a re-examination was conducted for 22 lakh aspirants, and the results were declared on July 19," he said.
"That's why I have ordered paper leak cases to be fast-tracked. Fast-track courts and paper leaks will be discussed in tomorrow's cabinet meeting. Following discussions tomorrow, a decision will be taken. From Monday, the second week of the Monsoon Session will begin, and we will bring that bill in the Parliament and ensure that it is passed," he added.
Fast-track court set up for paper leak cases
The crucial development comes hours after PM Modi announced the formation of fast-track courts to deal with cases of paper leaks in the country. He said the Centre will establish fast-track courts to ensure the swift trial and strict punishment of those involved in examination paper leaks.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said the government has directed all concerned authorities to take every necessary measure to protect students' interests. He asserted that those responsible for jeopardising the future of the country's youth would face stringent action and "will not be spared."
Following this, the Delhi High Court designated Judge Anu Grover Baliga as Special Judge of the fast-track court to deal with criminal cases arising out of paper leaks and the use of unfair means in public examinations.
Centre removes higher education secretary
In another key development over paper leaks, the Centre removed Vineet Joshi as the Secretary of Higher Education, bringing in Naresh Pal Gangwar to lead the department amid protests in Delhi and across the country.
Gangwar is a 1994 Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Rajasthan cadre, who was serving as the Secretary at the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. He has also served as Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
