The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) has released a strict notification under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. According to this, even discussing question papers after the exam can invite legal action, including a fine of up to ₹10 lakh. This step has been taken to stop paper leaks and unfair practices during multi-shift exams.
Many SSC exams are conducted in multiple shifts across several days. If candidates from one shift discuss questions, it may give an unfair advantage to those appearing later. Coaching institutes and content creators often publish memory-based papers, which further increases the risk of misuse. To keep the examination process transparent and fair, SSC has brought in this tough rule.
Activities That Are Prohibited
- Discussing or analysing exam question papers on social media, YouTube, Telegram, WhatsApp, or coaching classes.
- Sharing or circulating question papers, answer keys, or any part of them without SSC’s official permission.
- Publishing memory-based questions or answers online after exams.
- Possessing or distributing leaked papers or related material.
- Organising or promoting unfair means through online groups or offline coaching networks.
- Allowing or hosting paper discussions on platforms, channels, or groups.
Penalties Under the Act
The Public Examinations Act, 2024 has very strict punishments. If someone is found guilty of unauthorised sharing or discussion of exam papers, the penalty can be:
- Fine up to ₹10 lakh
- Imprisonment (depending on the case)
- Ban from future examinations
Safe Activities for Students
Students can still discuss their preparation strategies, exam experience, or how they managed time in the exam. General talk about difficulty level (easy, moderate, tough) is not a problem. The issue arises only when exact questions and answers are discussed or shared publicly without permission.
FAQs on SSC New Rule 2025
Q1: Can students talk about their exam experience?
Yes, students can share their personal experience like how the exam was, whether it was tough or easy, and how they managed time. The problem only begins when they reveal actual questions or answers in public platforms.
Q2: Is it illegal to check answer keys on YouTube after exam?
If the answer keys are released officially by SSC, then it is safe. But if YouTubers or coaching institutes release memory-based answer keys before the official release, then it is considered illegal under the new act.
Q3: What if I only tell my friends privately about some questions?
Private discussions among friends are generally not targeted. However, if those discussions are shared further in public groups or platforms, it may come under “unauthorised dissemination.” It is safer to avoid sharing exact questions at all.
Q4: Can coaching institutes analyse SSC exams after results?
Yes, after the SSC officially releases question papers and results, coaching centres are free to discuss and analyse. The law only restricts discussions before official release to maintain fairness.
Q5: Why is the fine so high?
The fine amount of up to ₹10 lakh has been kept deliberately high to act as a strong deterrent. The government wants to send a clear message that tampering with exam processes will not be tolerated in any form.
Final Words
This SSC rule may sound strict, but it has been made to protect the future of millions of students who prepare with honesty. Candidates must stay alert and avoid discussing papers online or offline until SSC officially allows it.
Report by Toofan Express