26 July,2026 04:06 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondent
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis .File Pic.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to strengthen the legal framework against paper leaks and examination fraud, saying the proposed legislation would be among the toughest of its kind and would help safeguard the future of students across the country.
Speaking to reporters, Fadnavis said he had no objection to the joint rally held by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray in Mumbai, asserting that the issue of examination irregularities transcended political lines.
"I have no objection. In fact, I am happy they found a reason to come together, and we are also happy. Issues like paper leaks are not linked to any individual or political party. They concern the future of our country's youth."
The chief minister praised Prime Minister Modi for responding to the nationwide concerns over examination fraud, saying the Centre had acted with sensitivity by proposing stronger legal measures.
"Keeping the interests of students in mind, the Prime Minister has taken the necessary decisions in the interest of the nation. I sincerely thank him for deciding to bring one of the toughest laws against paper leaks and examination fraud," Fadnavis said.
He added that the proposed amendment Bill is expected to be taken up in Parliament on Monday.
According to Fadnavis, the legislation aims to introduce stringent punishment for those involved in examination fraud and paper leaks, strengthening the existing Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
Responding to criticism from Uddhav Thackeray during the joint rally at Shivaji Park, Fadnavis said such political attacks no longer resonated with the public.
"Such statements have been repeated for the last ten years, but they no longer influence people. The entire country stands with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Even a single video posted by him receives record engagement globally, which reflects the support he enjoys," he said.
The rally by the Thackeray cousins came a day after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned following weeks of nationwide protests over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak and demands for reforms in the examination system.
Earlier, Prime Minister Modi assured the nation that stricter action would be taken against paper leaks. In a video message shared on social media, he announced that the Union Cabinet would consider a draft Bill providing for fast-track courts and tougher punishment for those involved in examination fraud.
The Union Cabinet approved amendments to the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, on Friday, with the proposed legislation expected to be introduced in Parliament on Monday as the Centre seeks to tighten the legal framework against paper leaks and restore confidence in the country's examination system.
(With inputs from ANI)
