The Lahore Education Board in Punjab has implemented new regulations, introducing a three-year prison sentence and a fine of Rs. 50,000 for leaking or sharing exam papers.
Under these rules, government officials found guilty of leaking exam papers will face imprisonment, fines, and termination from their positions. Furthermore, bringing mobile phones into practical exams or causing any form of disruption will result in action under the Yeda Act.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has been spearheading a year-long crackdown on exam malpractice. Reflecting on the campaign, he stated, “When we targeted the ‘booty mafia,’ we were stunned by their influence, as they had infiltrated and controlled the entire system.”
He added, “In March last year, we launched a crackdown against cheating in exams. After extensive efforts, we dismantled seven independent gangs. These groups were supported by a private school mafia involving government employees, exam boards, and teachers.”
Rana Sikandar further revealed that private staff at exam centers were caught charging up to Rs. 10,000 to solve papers for students. “Following months of work, we focused on legal reforms. The Lahore Board has already implemented these measures, and other boards are adopting them as well,” he said.
He explained that many individuals facilitated cheating using social media and digital platforms, but legal loopholes allowed them to evade punishment. “We’ve now addressed those gaps. From this point forward, anyone caught cheating will face immediate imprisonment, with no option for bail,” he asserted.
The introduction of stricter anti-cheating laws has been welcomed by teacher associations, who see it as a positive step toward ensuring academic integrity.
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