Court Issues Notice in Delhi Medical Council Election Dispute
The Delhi High Court has sought responses on a writ petition raising allegations of irregularities and conflict of interest in the ongoing elections of the Delhi Medical Council (DMC).
Justice Amit Bansal directed all respondents to file their status reports and counter-affidavits within six weeks. The matter has been listed for further hearing on September 29.
Petition Filed Under Article 226 Over Alleged Election Irregularities
The petition has been filed by Dr Abhishek Garg against the Government of NCT of Delhi, the Delhi Medical Council, the Delhi Medical Association (DMA) and others under Article 226 of the Constitution.
The plea relates to disputes surrounding the DMA–DMC election process, including the election held on May 17 and the DMC election scheduled for May 31.
Allegation of Conflict of Interest in Election Panel
According to the petition, members of the Election Commission constituted by the DMA were allegedly contesting the very elections they were supervising.
It has been further alleged that multiple members of the Election Commission were also candidates for seats in the Delhi Medical Council, raising concerns of a “clear conflict of interest”.
Key Allegations Raised in the Writ Petition
- Members of the Election Commission allegedly included contesting candidates
- One Election Commission chairperson was reportedly also a candidate in the DMC elections
- Another member allegedly filed nomination before withdrawing later
- Three out of four commission members were allegedly contesting for DMC seats
- Violation of DMA Bye-Laws, including Article 43, has been alleged
The petition argues that such overlap compromised the neutrality and independence of the electoral process.
Concerns Over Dissolution and Inquiry Into DMC
The plea also highlights that the Delhi Medical Council was dissolved in June 2025 by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi over allegations of irregularities, including issues related to administrative approvals and moral misconduct.
A government-appointed five-member inquiry committee was constituted in July 2025 to investigate officials linked to the council. However, the petitioner has alleged that the report has not yet been made public.
Court Permits Amendment of Petition
During the hearing, the High Court allowed the petitioner to amend the writ petition to include additional grievances regarding individuals elected in the May 17 elections, including allegations related to a former registrar of the dissolved council.
Relief Sought by the Petitioner
The petition seeks directions to:
- Disqualify Election Commission members who are also contesting candidates
- Constitute a fresh, independent Election Commission comprising non-candidates
- Ensure fair, transparent and unbiased conduct of DMC elections
Next Hearing Scheduled
The matter will be heard again on September 29 after submission of counter-affidavits and status reports by the respondents.
