Wrong medicine-Quota case delayed PG intake in medical institutes. Courts intervene too much

News: Widespread protests by resident doctors over delayed NEET-PG counselling come just when healthcare defences need to be strengthened against a feared Omicron surge. 

The current fiasco is an example as to how legal disputes can trigger disruptions elsewhere.

It would be better if issues like income ceiling for EWS/OBC categories are policy decisions best left to governments.

Why the NEET PG counselling got delayed? 

After the Centre introduced of OBC and EWS reservation in all-India quota seats and fixed a Rs 8 lakh creamy layer limit for both categories, the Supreme Court took up petitions challenging these policies. 

Judicial and administrative proceedings have caused the inordinate delay in counselling over and above the pandemic.

What are the implications of the delay?

This delay is overburdening the resident doctors and leading to other challenges related to career, academic progression and work-life balance.  

Further, coming March, the next NEET-PG examinations are due, leading to a situation where PG institutes will have to admit two batches in quick succession. This will put an unwarranted strain on medical education too.

Source: This post is based on the article “Wrong medicine-Quota case delayed PG intake in medical institutes. Courts intervene too much” published in Business standard on 30th Dec 2021.