Article Today, Hyderabad:
A private medical college located nearly 60 kilometres from Hyderabad has secured approval for an additional 50 MBBS seats. The National Medical Commission (NMC) granted the clearance even though the institution was earlier found lacking in basic facilities. Three years ago, one batch of students was cancelled at the same college. With the latest decision, the college now holds approval for 200 seats.
Fake Patients and Ghost Faculty
Investigations have revealed that the college fabricated medical records to show patients suffering from non-existent illnesses. Ghost faculty members were also listed on records to meet requirements. Ahead of inspections, the management arranged temporary medical equipment and staged the premises to resemble a functional hospital. Reports suggest that certain NMC officials colluded with the management in exchange for large sums of money.
National-Level Irregularities
Across the country, irregularities have surfaced during NMC inspections this year. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed multiple cases. Following public outcry, the Union Government removed NMC chairman Gangadhar from office. The CBI probe indicated that NMC officials, middlemen, and college administrators were part of a network that facilitated approvals in return for bribes.
Hyderabad Link in CBI Probe
In one case, the CBI named a Hyderabad-based doctor, Rajinireddy, who was part of an inspection team in Chhattisgarh. The agency alleged that the team cleared colleges without adequate facilities. Arrests and charges have followed in several states. Yet, critics argue that despite these investigations, certain NMC officials continue to grant permissions to non-compliant institutions.
Growing Concerns for Medical Education
The latest approval has once again raised concerns about the credibility of regulatory mechanisms. Educationists warn that allowing under-equipped colleges to admit more students could undermine medical training standards. Meanwhile, the CBI’s investigation into the wider corruption scandal is continuing.
