After PM’s announcement, Delhi HC to appoint fast track court for paper leak cases

People protest in support of the ongoing Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) agitation at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar demanding accountability for examination irregularities, reforms in the education system and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. File | Photo credit: PTI

The Delhi High Court has designated a special fast-track court to exclusively hear criminal cases related to paper leaks and other malpractices in public examinations.

The notification was issued on Thursday (July 23, 2026) after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the government would set up fast track courts to ensure speedy trials in paper leak cases.

According to a notification issued by the High Court, the court of Judicial Officer Anu Grover Baliga has been notified as a “Specially Designated Fast Track Court” to try offenses under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Malpractice) Act, 2024 along with related offences. The designation takes effect immediately.

The special court will function from the Rouse Avenue Judicial Complex in Delhi. Justice Baliga previously served as the Judge-in-charge of the Central District Mediation Center at Tis Hazari Courts.

Earlier on Thursday (July 23, 2026), Prime Minister Modi announced the decision to set up fast-track courts in paper leak cases, making his first direct remarks amid widespread protests by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) over the alleged NEET-UG paper leak.

In a post on X, Mr Modi said the government had decided to set up fast-track courts “to ensure swift and severe punishment of those involved in the paper leak”. He added that he directed the authorities concerned to take all necessary steps, describing the move as part of the government’s efforts to protect the interests of students.

“Those who seek to harm the future of our youth will not be spared,” the prime minister said.

Published – 24 July 2026 10:40 AM IST