0
0
Pune, May 15, 2025:
The Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre in Pimpri, Pune, has come under the scanner of the National Medical Commission (NMC) following multiple complaints alleging that the institution is charging MBBS students fees for five years instead of the prescribed 4.5 years. The Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) of the NMC has officially directed the Directorate of Medical Education (DME), Maharashtra, to investigate the matter and take appropriate action if necessary.
Background and Allegations
The controversy erupted after students filed numerous grievances through emails and the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAM/PMOGP portal), claiming they were being billed for an additional half-year beyond the standard MBBS course duration. According to regulations, MBBS fees should only be collected for 4.5 years, not the full five years.
Dr. Divyansh Dwivedi, who spearheaded the complaint process, stated that the NMC had previously issued five notices to the Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER) Maharashtra, requesting an action taken report, but no response was received until now. Dr. Dwivedi emphasized that charging fees for the fifth year is illegal, referencing a 2005 Supreme Court judgment (P.A. Inamdar vs. State of Maharashtra).
NMC’s Response and Next Steps
In a letter dated May 1, 2025, the NMC clarified that while it sets the regulations, the responsibility for implementation lies with the respective institutions and state authorities. The NMC has now asked the DME Maharashtra to:
-
Conduct an inquiry into the fee structure at DY Patil Medical College.
-
Clarify whether any other medical colleges in Maharashtra are charging full fees for the fifth year.
-
Submit an action taken report within 15 days.
The NMC also stated that these complaints would be reviewed during the annual approval process for the college for the academic year 2025-2026.
Previous Concerns and College’s Response
This is not the first time DY Patil Medical College has faced regulatory scrutiny. Earlier, the NMC had asked the college to address a series of complaints related to infrastructure, training quality, stipend deductions, and other operational deficiencies. However, the college has maintained that NMC assessors did not find any violations during their inspections.
Implications for Students and the Institution
The ongoing investigation could have significant implications for both current and prospective MBBS students, as well as the institution’s standing with the NMC. If found in violation, the college may be required to revise its fee structure and potentially refund excess fees collected.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information reported by Medical Dialogues as of May 15, 2025. The situation is ongoing, and further updates may emerge as investigations proceed. Readers are advised to consult official NMC or DME Maharashtra communications for the latest and most accurate information.
Citations:
