Rajasthan Govt to Introduce Bill for Life Imprisonment in Recruitment Exam Paper Leaks

Bhubaneswar: The Rajasthan government plans to combat the issue of recruitment exam paper leaks by introducing a bill in the upcoming assembly session. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has proposed increasing the punishment for these offences from 10 years to life imprisonment. This decision comes amidst growing concerns and criticism from opposition parties regarding cheating incidents in government recruitment tests, particularly with the assembly elections approaching.

Gehlot has emphasized the need for transparency in competitive exams and has directed the chief secretary to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in order to develop a more robust and transparent examination process. The aim is to restore public trust and ensure a fair selection process for all candidates.

The proposed bill seeks to address the widespread problem of paper leaks in recruitment exams by imposing a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The previous bill, passed in March 2022, had prescribed a maximum sentence of 10 years and a fine of Rs 10 crore for paper leaks and cheating in recruitment tests. The cancellation of the REET level-two examination in September 2021 due to a paper leak has further highlighted the need for stricter action against those responsible.

The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the REET paper leak case, which is currently under investigation by the Special Operation Group of the Rajasthan Police. The issue of paper leaks has become a significant concern ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Sachin Pilot, the former deputy chief minister, has raised three demands, including the reconstitution of the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC), compensation for affected candidates, and a high-level investigation into corruption allegations against the previous Vasundhara Raje government.

By implementing these measures and increasing the punishment for paper leaks, the Rajasthan government aims to deter individuals involved in such illegal activities and create a level playing field for all aspiring candidates. The emphasis on transparency in competitive exams is crucial for restoring faith in the selection process and ensuring equal opportunities for all.