On Day 9 of the Parliament Monsoon Session, the Rajya Sabha took up the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026 for discussion and passage. The Bill is aimed at strengthening action against paper leaks and other unfair practices in public examinations.
The legislation was brought in after repeated concerns over examination security and student distress caused by leaks and malpractice. According to the reports, the proposed changes seek stricter punishment and a stronger legal framework to discourage organized cheating networks.
At the same time, the Lok Sabha passed another major Bill that seeks to criminalise deliberate insults or obstruction related to the national song, Vande Mataram. The Bill, called the Prevention of Insults to National Honour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, was passed by voice vote amid opposition uproar.
The legislation gives Vande Mataram legal protection under the national honour framework and proposes punishment for acts seen as intentional disrespect. Supporters of the Bill said it is meant to strengthen respect for national symbols, while critics argued over its political and constitutional implications.
The two Bills made Day 9 a politically significant one in Parliament, with the government pushing ahead on issues linked to examinations, national honour and public accountability. The proceedings also highlighted the sharp divide between the treasury benches and the opposition on both policy and symbolism.
