The National Medical Commission (NMC) has taken a significant step to address the concerns of post-graduate (PG) medical students regarding arbitrary fees and pressure to stay in hostels. In a recent notice dated February 8, 2024, the NMC has warned medical colleges against imposing excessive fees on PG students under the pretext of hostel charges. The commission has emphasized that action will be taken against institutions that do not comply with these instructions.
As per the notice, referring to the rules of Post Graduate Medical Education Regulation (PGMER) 2023, medical colleges are obligated to provide suitable residential facilities for PG students. Notably, the notice clarifies that staying in hostels is not mandatory for PG students.
The NMC’s decision follows complaints from PG students who reported being coerced into staying in hostels and facing exorbitant fees for such accommodations. The notice directs all medical colleges and institutions to adhere to the prescribed rules. Failure to comply may result in penalties under PGMER Regulations 9.1 and 9.2, including fines, seat reduction, or the withholding of admission.
This move by the NMC aims to provide relief to PG students, ensuring that they are not compelled to stay in hostels against their preferences and are not subjected to arbitrary fees. It underscores the importance of respecting the rights and choices of students regarding their residential arrangements during their post-graduate medical education.
