DY Patil Medical College Pune Faces NMC Probe Over 5-Year MBBS Fees

Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Pune, is under investigation by the National Medical Commission (NMC) following multiple allegations of irregularities.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has launched an investigation into Dr. DY Patil Medical College, Pune, based on allegations of collecting fees for five years of MBBS study from students instead of the regular 4.5 years. This has allegedly resulted in students paying up to ₹30 lakh, significantly more than the standard fee structure for a 4.5-year MBBS course. Students allege that the college has not only overcharged fees but also involved in additional financial irregularities.

In addition to the fee anomaly, the NMC probe also covers a series of grave allegations:

1. Financial Irregularities: There have been reports of keeping false records, presenting fake scholarship documents, and unauthorized withholding of student stipends. Certain students have reported being overcharged for exams, hostel stays, and even necessities such as electricity.

2. Infrastructure Shortcomings: The college is charged with the absence of key facilities, such as reserved parking lots, playgrounds, and sufficient open spaces. The campus is said to accommodate several institutions, resulting in overcrowding and resource constraints.

3. Training and Residency Program Issues: There are allegations of non-compliance with implementation of the District Residency Program, where residents have to incur travel costs to far-off districts. Moreover, consultants are reportedly prioritizing private outpatient departments at the expense of resident training, undermining the educational process.

Complainants are urging swift action, calling for a freeze on all excess fee collections and a special audit of the financial practices of the medical college. They are also demanding disciplinary proceedings against DMER officials for inaction. Additionally, students are seeking a complete refund of unlawfully collected fees, along with applicable interest. If these demands are not addressed within 7 working days, students have warned that they will pursue legal action, which may include criminal complaints, contempt of court proceedings, and other judicial interventions.

In response to these allegations, the NMC has asked DY Patil Medical College to submit a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) within seven days, along with documentary evidence addressing the issues.

The college, in its defense, has stated that during multiple inspections, NMC assessors did not identify any deficiencies. They assert compliance with all regulatory standards and emphasize their commitment to transparency and excellence in medical education.

As the investigation unfolds, the medical community and prospective students await clarity on the institution's adherence to educational and ethical standards.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)