A recent RTI petition has revealed that ten medical colleges in Karnataka have failed to pay stipends to their MBBS interns, despite clear guidelines from the National Medical Commission (NMC). Among 198 institutions that received show-cause notices from the NMC in November 2024 for non-payment or non-reporting of stipends, Karnataka accounts for a notable share.
In January 2025, in response to an RTI query on action taken, the NMC stated that the matter is “sub judice” and that enforcement fall under state authorities. The commission had earlier claimed authority to penalize defaulters under the 2023 Maintenance of Standards Regulations — including fines up to ₹1 crore or withdrawal of accreditation — but since has shifted responsibility to states
Data acquired through RTIs shows a larger problem: of 753 medical colleges across India, 198 didn’t even submit stipend payment details for 2023–24, and among those who did, 60 institutions (33 government, 27 private) admitted to not paying stipends at all. These figures are consistent with other reports revealing a widespread lack of enforcement
Following NMC’s deferral, the Prime Minister’s Office directed the Union Health Ministry to ensure action through appropriate channels, given that interns often work extensive hours without pay. However, little progress has been reported since, with state medical councils remaining largely inactive.
Medical interns in Karnataka and beyond reportedly endure unstated exploitation working excessive hours with zero or meagre compensation, sometimes below the floor wage. RTI activist Dr K V Babu has repeatedly highlighted this, noting the system allows trickery such as colleges depositing stipends only to reclaim them. The Supreme Court has affirmed the necessity of stipends, likening non-payment to bonded labor, and has ordered NMC to file affidavits detailing compliance. These interns, often posted in high-pressure departments like emergency, ICU, or rural primary health centers, work 12–14 hours a day. Without stipends, many struggle to cover basic living expenses like rent and food. Several students have also voiced mental health concerns due to financial instability and overwork. Despite repeated complaints, many fear retaliation if they escalate the matter within college administrations.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)