The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued clear directives to ensure that the NEET-PG 2024 counselling process for medical seats in the state adheres strictly to the rules governing the allocation of NRI quota seats.

The judgment was delivered in response to a batch of petitions challenging alleged irregularities in the allocation of seats under this category.

The bench emphasized the significance of maintaining compliance with the Medical Council of India (MCI) regulations, now governed by the National Medical Commission (NMC). These regulations mandate that NRI quota seats be allocated solely to eligible candidates, such as children or dependents of NRIs, as defined under the guidelines. The court took a strong stance against any deviation, underscoring that such lapses compromise the principles of merit, transparency, and fairness.

The petitioners had raised concerns that candidates not meeting the NRI eligibility criteria were being considered for seats reserved under this category. They argued that such practices not only undermine the merit-based system but also deprive deserving candidates of their rightful opportunities. The court acknowledged the gravity of these allegations and sought strict adherence to the eligibility requirements.

The petitioners further contended that mismanagement and opaque processes in seat allocation tarnish the credibility of the counselling mechanism. In response, the court directed the Directorate of Medical Education (DME) and other counselling authorities to ensure the integrity of the process and prevent any procedural lapses.

Highlighting the fundamental principles of professional education admissions, the court stressed that merit and fairness are non-negotiable. Any deviation from these principles, it stated, erodes public confidence in the system and potentially impacts the quality of medical education. The bench directed the authorities to implement measures that uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring that only eligible candidates benefit from the NRI quota.

The court also observed that the NRI quota often attracts scrutiny due to its specialized nature and the higher fee structure associated with it. Misuse of this category, therefore, not only leads to legal disputes but also raises ethical concerns within the broader academic community.

This ruling is expected to have a significant impact on the ongoing NEET-PG 2024 counselling process in Madhya Pradesh. It serves as a reminder to all states to adhere strictly to the regulatory framework while allocating seats under special categories such as the NRI quota. The court’s judgment reinforces the need for a robust mechanism to address grievances and ensure compliance with prescribed norms.

With medical education being a cornerstone of the healthcare system, the court’s intervention highlights the judiciary's role in safeguarding fairness and integrity. This development is likely to influence future counselling practices, ensuring a more equitable and merit-driven process for aspiring medical professionals.

Case Title: Dr. Ojus Yadav Versus The State Of Madhya Pradesh And Others, Writ Petition No. 37985 of 2024