Modi promises tougher action on exam paper leaks as Delhi protests intensify: NDTV

The leaks cause deep distress for millions of students and their families, the Indian premier says in a video statement

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the press upon his arrival to attend the first day of the monsoon session of parliament in New Delhi, India, Jul 20, 2026. REUTERS

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged tougher action against examination paper leaks, saying his government will seek prompt passage of new measures as protests over alleged irregularities continue in New Delhi, NDTV reports.

In a video statement released on Thursday night, Modi said paper leaks had caused immense distress to millions of students and their families.

He said several steps had already been taken over the past two-and-a-half months, with those responsible arrested and fresh examinations arranged for around 2.2 million students.

The Indian premier said he had instructed departments to establish a fast-track court for paper leak cases. The proposal will be discussed by the cabinet on Friday before being introduced in parliament next week, with the government aiming for its swift passage.

The announcement followed the Delhi High Court's decision to establish a fast-track court to hear offences under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.

The court will immediately take over pending cases under the law, which carries penalties of up to five years' imprisonment and a fine of Rs 1 million.

Protests led by the satirical Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) continued at Jantar Mantar, where demonstrators demanded Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and broader reforms to public examinations.

The protests, which began on Jun 6, intensified after activist Sonam Wangchuk launched an indefinite hunger strike on Jun 28.