6 February
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a significant move to uphold the integrity of government recruitment examinations, the Lok Sabha resoundingly approved the Public Examination (Prevention of Fair Means) Bill-2024 today. This pivotal legislation, championed by Union Minister Jitinder Singh, aims to combat malpractices and irregularities that have plagued such examinations, posing a threat to the fair selection of candidates.
The proposed bill introduces stringent measures to deter wrongdoers, with a maximum imprisonment term of 10 years and a hefty fine of up to Rs 1 crore for those found guilty of compromising the sanctity of government recruitment processes. Minister Jitinder Singh emphasized that the primary objective of the bill is to safeguard the interests of meritorious students and candidates, ensuring that their hard work and abilities are the determining factors in securing government positions.
The bill’s passage comes after a thorough examination and deliberation in the Lok Sabha, where it encountered robust discussions and debates. Opposition members proposed amendments, seeking modifications to certain provisions. However, the Lok Sabha, in its wisdom, rejected these proposed changes, underscoring the government’s commitment to maintaining the bill’s intended strength and efficacy.
Minister Jitinder Singh, while presenting the bill to the Lok Sabha, articulated the urgent need for such legislation in light of increasing instances of malpractices in government recruitment examinations. He highlighted that the bill’s provisions are crafted to act as a deterrent, sending a clear message that any attempt to compromise the fairness of these examinations will be met with severe consequences.
The Public Examination (Prevention of Fair Means) Bill-2024 is a crucial step towards restoring confidence in the recruitment process, assuring aspiring candidates that their hard work will be duly recognized and rewarded. The inclusion of substantial penalties for wrongdoers signals a firm stance against corruption and malpractices in the realm of government examinations.
As the bill awaits further legislative processes, it stands as a beacon of hope for the countless diligent and deserving candidates who aspire to serve the nation through government positions. The Lok Sabha’s unanimous support for this legislation reflects a collective commitment to upholding the principles of fairness, transparency, and meritocracy in the recruitment procedures of the country.