The Education Board in Lahore, Punjab, has introduced new rules, imposing a three-year jail term and a fine of 50,000 rupees for leaking or sharing exam papers.
Under the new rules, government officials involved in leaking exam papers will face imprisonment, fines and dismissal. Additionally, the introduction of mobile phones during practical examinations or any form of interference will attract action under the Yeda Act.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has been waging a major crackdown against cheating for almost a year. Reflecting on the operation, he revealed: When we took on the ‘booti mafia’, we were shocked by the power of these individuals, having taken control of the entire system.
He continued: “In March last year we launched our campaign against exam cheating. After months of effort, we dismantled seven gangs, each operating independently. These gangs were supported by a private school mafia involving government staff, exam boards and teachers. “.
Rana Sikandar Hayat also mentioned that private staff of exam centers were caught red-handed, charging up to Rs.10,000 to solve students’ papers. “After months of hard work, we have focused on legal reforms. The Lahore Council has already started implementing them, and other councils are following suit.”
He further explained, “The people we caught were running networks to facilitate cheating through social media and other digital platforms. Despite filing complaints, many managed to escape because there were no laws to combat digital cheating. Now we have closed all these loopholes. “.
“Now anyone caught cheating will go straight to jail, and there will be no bail in such cases,” he added.
Teachers’ associations have welcomed the implementation of stricter anti-cheating laws.
