Raipur, March 20: The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on Friday unanimously passed the Chhattisgarh Public Recruitment and Professional Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Bill, 2026. The legislation aims to eliminate paper leaks and organized malpractice in state examinations, proposing stringent penalties including life-term consequences for recruitment syndicates.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, while replying to the discussion, stated that the law sends a “stern warning to the exam mafia” and is designed to ensure that honest talent receives its due. Under the new provisions, individuals involved in organized cheating or paper leaks can face imprisonment ranging from three to 10 years and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh. Service providers or institutions found guilty of collusion face even steeper penalties, including fines up to ₹1 crore and a minimum three-year debarment.
The Chief Minister alleged that the previous administration had allowed recruitment bodies like the Public Service Commission (CGPSC) to become hubs of corruption. He noted that the current government has already handed over several such cases to the CBI. Sai emphasized that the new law includes measures to protect whistleblowers and mandates that investigations be conducted by officers not below the rank of Sub-Inspector.
Candidates caught using unfair means will see their results withheld and face a ban from appearing in public examinations for one to three years. However, the law stops short of permanent disqualification, allowing reformed candidates to compete again after the penalty period.
Leader of the Opposition Charan Das Mahant supported the bill’s intent to protect students’ interests but cautioned the government against politicizing the issue. He urged the Treasury benches to focus on effective implementation and good governance rather than dwelling on past controversies. The bill also empowers the state to attach and confiscate properties of those involved in organized examination crimes.