Raghav Chadha Defends Silence, Backs Anti-Paper Leak Law

Chadha Defends Silence On Paper Leak Crisis

In a speech during the debate on the anti paper leak bill, he pointed out his job now had changed after his migration from Opposition benches to the Treasury. This former AAP leader had, not very long ago, led seven Rajya Sabha members who broke away from the Arvind Kejriwal-founded party and merged with the ruling BJP. Chadha told the Upper House that there were quite many queries to him as to why he had remained quiet over the NEET examination paper leaks.

"Earlier, when I was in the Opposition, it was my job to raise questions, and I did it honestly. Now I am on the treasury benches, so my role has changed. My responsibility is no longer to ask questions but to provide solutions," he said.

"I had made a promise to myself that I would speak about the matter in Parliament only when we could bring a solution and when the system is being fixed. And today is that historic day when the system is being fixed," he added.

Urges Against Politicising Paper Leak Crisis

Speaking on the bill, he remarked that people should not politicize Paper Leak because it is a disease, chronic disease. According to him it does not matter whichever state any paper has outed or which minister is ruling, and which political party. 

Meanwhile, he did not fail to take a dig at his earlier party, noting alleged exam malpractice in Punjab Pharmacy Officer recruitment exam, July 19 where candidates are alleged to have been given assistance through the Bluetooth device during the exam.

Credits Modi For Swift Examination Reforms

Speaking at the House he mentioned the NDA regime acted very swiftly, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi acted like a guardian, after students presented their demands.

"When students expressed their concerns, the Prime Minister listened to them like a guardian and changed the system. For the first time, our government has brought a comprehensive framework to tackle paper leaks. When it came to students, the government listened and acted," Chadha said.

"The students placed their concerns before the Prime Minister with hope, and several actions were taken. A charge sheet was filed in a fast-track court within just 75 days. The investigation was not allowed to drag on," he added.

Stricter Punishments For Public Exam Crimes

The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, will introduce heavier punishment for those who indulge in paper leaks and other unfair means. According to the government, this Bill attempts to address one of the biggest concerns of students which has impacted the lives of many. 

Under new law, if someone is found guilty of leaking papers or engaging in unfair means in public examinations will be punished with a minimum of five years, extended to 10 years, and liable to pay up to Rs50 lakh. Organized cheating or organised malpractices would invite a minimum seven years’ prison with fine up to Rs10 crore.