Bombay High Court Sets Up Special Courts in Aurangabad, Nagpur for Paper Leak Cases
- Two special courts established in Aurangabad and Nagpur to fast-track paper leak cases.
- Move follows nationwide student protests and stricter anti-paper leak legislation with up to 10-year jail and Rs 10 crore fine.
- Judges from the respective benches have been assigned to preside over these special courts.
Fast-Track Courts for Exam Leaks
The Bombay High Court has designated two special fast-track courts in Aurangabad and Nagpur to handle cases related to exam paper leaks. The move is aimed at expediting trials in a category of offences that has sparked widespread student unrest across the country.
According to a notification issued by the High Court, the special courts will be presided over by judges from the Aurangabad and Nagpur benches. The cases will be transferred to these courts for speedy disposal.
Nationwide Context: Stricter Laws and Protests
The decision comes amid heightened scrutiny of examination integrity in India. The Union Cabinet recently cleared a tougher anti-paper leak bill that proposes up to 10 years in jail and a fine of up to Rs 10 crore for those involved in organised exam malpractices.
Student protests have erupted in several states, with demonstrators demanding accountability and systemic reforms. The protests have drawn support from public figures, including actor Dia Mirza, who questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s video message on the issue, and filmmaker Amol Palekar, who penned an open letter to student protesters.
What the Special Courts Mean
By establishing dedicated courts, the Bombay High Court aims to reduce the backlog of pending paper leak cases and deliver quicker verdicts. Legal experts say this could act as a deterrent, ensuring that those accused of leaking question papers face swift justice.
The move also aligns with the central government's push for faster resolution of cases that impact public trust in the education system. The special courts in Aurangabad and Nagpur are expected to begin functioning immediately.
Officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of cases that will be transferred to these courts. However, the High Court has directed that all pending paper leak matters within the jurisdiction of these benches be listed before the designated judges.
Reactions and Next Steps
Student groups have cautiously welcomed the development, though many continue to demand broader reforms, including changes to the examination system itself. The government has indicated that the new anti-paper leak law, once passed, will complement the fast-track courts.
All eyes are now on the first hearings in these special courts, which are expected to set a precedent for how such cases are handled nationwide.