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Jabalpur (7 Jan): In a landmark decision, the Madhya Pradesh High Court has dismissed a writ petition (WP No. 37985/2024) filed by Dr. Ojus Yadav challenging the allocation of NRI quota seats in private medical colleges for PG courses. The petitioner contended that the selective distribution of 15% NRI seats to only eight branches, instead of all 22, was arbitrary and reduced opportunities for non-NRI candidates.
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Key Highlights of the Case:
Petitioner’s Argument:
Dr. Ojus Yadav alleged that the NRI quota seats were limited to eight branches, leading to a disproportionate reduction in seats available to meritorious candidates in other categories.
The petitioner claimed this violated Rule 5 of the Madhya Pradesh Chikitsa Shiksha Pravesh Rules, 2018, as objections were not invited before the seat matrix was published.
The petitioner also argued that the practice contradicted the Supreme Court’s judgment in P.A. Inamdar v. State of Maharashtra (2005), where merit-based allocation within the NRI quota was emphasized.
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MP State Arguments:
The State argued that the NRI quota, capped at 15% of total seats, is essential for the financial sustainability of private medical colleges.
Counsel for the private institutions emphasized that their allocation practices align with demand patterns and institutional capacities.
They highlighted the Supreme Court’s endorsement of limited NRI quotas to strengthen institutional infrastructure and educational standards.
Court’s Observation:
The court noted that the relevant rules do not mandate branch-wise allocation of NRI seats.
It upheld the discretion of private institutions in seat allocation, provided they adhere to the Supreme Court’s twin conditions: exclusive use of the NRI quota for NRIs/their wards and ensuring merit is not ignored within this category.
The court dismissed the petition, citing no evidence of rule violations or illegality.
Implications of the Judgment:
The dismissal reinforces the autonomy of private institutions in managing NRI quotas within the regulatory framework. It underscores the balance between institutional financial sustainability and equitable access to medical education. However, the judgment has sparked debates over the need for clearer rules on seat distribution to ensure transparency and fairness.
Final Directions by Hon’ble Court
The court directed the state to conduct immediate counseling to fill vacant NRI seats, emphasizing the importance of utilizing all available medical seats amidst a national doctor shortage.
The Medical Bulletin
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