Article Today, Hyderabad: The National Medical Commission (NMC) continues to face criticism over alleged corruption and collusion with private medical colleges. Despite ongoing Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probes in various parts of the country, some NMC officials remain undeterred. The latest controversy surrounds Mahaveer Medical College in Vikarabad, Telangana, which is accused of staging fake patients ahead of an official inspection.
Earlier Inspection Plan Exposed and Halted
Last month, the NMC had planned to inspect Mahaveer Medical College. However, after details of the proposed visit were exposed in media reports, the plan was called off. Sources suggest that NMC officials had already informed the college management in advance, raising questions about impartiality. Despite the setback, the inspection has been rescheduled, with a new visit expected by July 29.
Fake Patients Contracted to Show ‘Functioning’ Hospital
In preparation for the inspection, the college management has reportedly entered into an agreement to bring in fake patients daily until July 29. Over 100 individuals are being transported by buses from nearby villages to pose as patients. According to internal sources, they are paid Rs.1,000 to Rs.2,000 each per day. The “patients” arrive at 8 a.m. and stay until 4 p.m., mimicking genuine hospital activity.
Specialised Coaching and Fake Case Sheets Prepared
To convince NMC inspectors, fake case sheets are being prepared under the names of these contract patients. Clerks from various departments are said to be supervising the process. These fake patients are trained to respond to queries in line with the fabricated case histories, ensuring their performance matches the hospital’s records.
College Seeks 100 Additional MBBS Seats
Mahaveer Medical College has applied for an increase in MBBS seats—from the current 150 to 250. However, concerns have been raised over its failure to meet basic infrastructure and faculty norms. At the same time, inspections for postgraduate course approvals are also pending. The college hopes to clear both reviews during the upcoming NMC visit, even as allegations of malpractice continue to swirl.
Past Precedents Highlight Deep-Rooted Issues
This is not an isolated incident. Recently, the NMC cancelled the recognition of Father Colombo Medical College in Warangal following a CBI probe that revealed bribe payments. Investigations exposed how NMC officials, along with middlemen and college administrators, took large sums in exchange for approvals, even where basic medical standards were unmet.
CBI Crackdown Brings High-Level Corruption to Light
The CBI’s ongoing investigations have brought national attention to systemic corruption in medical education. In Chhattisgarh, a Hyderabad-based NMC inspector, Dr. Rajini Reddy, was named in a CBI FIR for similar irregularities. These developments have cast a long shadow over upcoming inspections, including that of Mahaveer Medical College.
What Lies Ahead for Mahaveer Medical College?
As July 29th , approaches, speculation grows over whether Mahaveer Medical College will receive NMC approval or face disciplinary action. The college’s attempts to mask its shortcomings through stage-managed inspections have alarmed many in the medical community. With past examples like Father Colombo College in mind, all eyes are now on the NMC and how it responds to these latest allegations.
