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9 Jan 2026·Source: The Hindu
3 min
Polity & GovernanceSocial IssuesSocial IssuesNEWS

J&K CM Questions Officials Over MBBS Course Cancellation

J&K CM seeks accountability after NMC cancels MBBS course approval.

J&K CM Questions Officials Over MBBS Course Cancellation

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Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has directed tough questions to be asked of the office-bearers of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, including Chancellor Manoj Sinha, after the National Medical Commission (NMC) withdrew permission for the MBBS course due to non-compliance with standards. The decision followed protests against the admission of 42 Muslim students in the 50-seat medical college. Abdullah has directed measures to adjust affected students, while BJP leader Sunil Kumar Sharma supported the NMC decision, claiming donations should be used for religious propagation. Senior NC leader Sakina Itoo termed the closure as religiously motivated.

Key Facts

1.

NMC withdrew MBBS permission: Non-compliance with standards

2.

Protests: Admission of 42 Muslim students

3.

Affected students: To be adjusted elsewhere

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: Governance, Polity, Social Justice

2.

Role of regulatory bodies like NMC

3.

Federalism and state autonomy in education

Visual Insights

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence Location

Map showing the location of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence in Jammu and Kashmir.

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📍Jammu and Kashmir
More Information

Background

The establishment of medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir has a complex history intertwined with the region's socio-political landscape. Prior to the 1990s, medical education was primarily concentrated in government institutions. The rise of private medical colleges, including those managed by trusts and religious organizations, aimed to address the growing demand for medical professionals.

However, these institutions have often faced challenges related to infrastructure, faculty, and adherence to regulatory standards set by bodies like the Medical Council of India (now NMC). The involvement of political figures and religious organizations in the management of these colleges has also led to controversies, particularly concerning admissions and governance. The revocation of Article 370 in 2019 further altered the regulatory environment, impacting the autonomy and operational framework of educational institutions in the region.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been a greater emphasis on ensuring quality and transparency in medical education across India. The National Medical Commission (NMC) has been actively involved in conducting inspections and enforcing compliance with its standards. Several medical colleges, both private and government, have faced scrutiny and corrective actions due to deficiencies in infrastructure, faculty, or teaching standards.

The revocation of permissions for MBBS courses, as seen in the case of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, reflects the NMC's commitment to maintaining standards. The future outlook involves stricter enforcement of regulations, increased use of technology for monitoring, and greater emphasis on ethical practices in medical education. The government is also promoting the establishment of new medical colleges in underserved areas to address the shortage of doctors.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the National Medical Commission (NMC): 1. The NMC replaced the Medical Council of India (MCI). 2. The NMC regulates both medical education and medical professionals. 3. The NMC is headed by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.2 and 3 only
  • C.1 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: A

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The NMC replaced the MCI and regulates both medical education and professionals. Statement 3 is incorrect as the NMC is headed by a chairperson appointed by the central government, not the Union Minister.

2. In the context of the recent news regarding the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence, which of the following statements is NOT correct? A) The National Medical Commission (NMC) withdrew permission for the MBBS course. B) The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir questioned officials regarding the cancellation. C) The decision followed protests against the admission of a specific number of students from a particular community. D) The institute is directly funded and managed by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

  • A.The National Medical Commission (NMC) withdrew permission for the MBBS course.
  • B.The Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir questioned officials regarding the cancellation.
  • C.The decision followed protests against the admission of a specific number of students from a particular community.
  • D.The institute is directly funded and managed by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Show Answer

Answer: D

Options A, B, and C are correct based on the news. Option D is incorrect because the institute is not directly funded and managed by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is managed by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

3. Which of the following committees is/are associated with reforms in medical education in India? 1. Ranjan Pai Committee 2. Shanta Shetty Committee 3. Abhijit Sen Committee Select the correct answer using the code given below:

  • A.1 only
  • B.1 and 2 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

The Ranjan Pai Committee and Shanta Shetty Committee are associated with reforms in medical education. The Abhijit Sen Committee is related to long term grain policy.

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