PM Modi announces new bill for fast-track court and stringent punishment in paper leak cases in a late-night video

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday night posted a video message on his official X handle, announcing that stricter measures against paper leaks would be taken up in the Cabinet meeting scheduled for Friday. Speaking directly to the camera in an informal style from his office, the Prime Minister described paper leaks as a matter of deep concern that has caused immense pain to lakhs of students and their parents across the country.

He recalled that over the past two-and-a-half months the government had already taken several firm steps, including the arrest of those involved in the wrongdoing, many of whom are now in jail. The Prime Minister stressed that the foremost responsibility had been to ensure that students did not lose an entire academic year. Accordingly, the Centre had swung into action with full force and arranged for examinations to be held for nearly 22 lakh students in the shortest possible time. Results were declared on 19 July, and reports of joy among successful candidates have been pouring in from different parts of the nation. Yet, PM Modi made it clear that the government was not content with these measures alone.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister had already signalled the government’s intent through a post on X, and had announced setting up fast-track courts for speedy trial of paper leak cases. In that message, he had written: “Nothing is more important than the welfare and future of our youth! We have decided to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift and stringent punishment for those involved in paper leaks. Have directed the concerned authorities and officials to take all necessary steps in this regard. This continues our series of steps for safeguarding the interests of students. Those who try to harm the future of our youth will not be spared.”

Following that announcement, PM Modi revealed in the video that he had directed the concerned departments to prepare a draft for the creation of fast-track courts along with provisions for stringent punishment. The departments worked late into the night and submitted the draft to him. This draft, he said, would be discussed in the Cabinet on Friday. After incorporating the suggestions of Cabinet colleagues, it would be given final shape. With the second week of the ongoing Parliament session set to begin on Monday, the government would make every effort to introduce and pass the related bill in the House at the earliest, he said.

The video itself marks a departure from the Prime Minister’s usual communication style, who generally prefers formal communication broadcast on Doordarshan or official YouTube channels for video messages. Shot in a vertical, selfie-like format and delivered in a conversational tone, this is probably the first such informal social media video by PM Modi, in which he appeared to speak directly and spontaneously to citizens on the sensitive national issue.

Written by OpIndia Staff
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