Complaint Alleges Violation of Maharashtra Medical Council Act; PGMEB Demands Response Within 7 Days
New Delhi: The Postgraduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB) of the National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a notice to DY Patil Medical College, seeking an explanation over allegations that the college’s dean is practicing without a valid registration from the Maharashtra Medical Council (MMC).
In a letter dated May 23, 2025, the NMC directed the college registrar to submit comments on the issue within seven days. “A complaint received by the PGMEB cites violations of stipulated laws/norms, including the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1956,” the letter states.
Complaint Highlights Alleged Illegality in Dean’s Appointment
The controversy stems from a complaint filed by Dr. Dwivedi, who alleged that the current Dean of DY Patil Medical College, Dr. Arcot, does not hold the mandatory MMC registration. While she is reportedly registered with the Tamil Nadu Medical Council (TNMC), this license does not permit medical practice or academic leadership in Maharashtra.
Dr. Arcot, who formerly served as Dean at Apollo Hospitals, Jubilee Hills in Telangana, was appointed by DY Patil College despite not meeting the state-specific licensing criteria, the complainant claims. Citing Section 26 of the MMC Act 1965, Dr. Dwivedi emphasized that registration with the MMC is legally required to practice medicine in the state.
Accusations of Institutional Negligence and Misrepresentation
The complaint, which was also forwarded to the NMC by the Vice-President’s Secretariat, alleged institutional fraud and negligence. Dr. Dwivedi claimed the college misrepresented an unregistered doctor as a qualified Dean, which he said amounts to medical negligence and violates Supreme Court directives as well as NMC and UGC regulations regarding academic leadership roles.
Further, the complainant demanded:
- Immediate suspension of the Dean
- FIR against the college under IPC Sections 417 (cheating) and 188 (disobeying public order)
- A ₹5 crore penalty via consumer court for endangering students and patients
- Criminal prosecution and UGC/State Higher Education Department disaffiliation
- Nullification of all administrative decisions made by the Dean
- Compensation for students
- Sealing of the Dean’s office until compliance is ensured
PGMEB to Review College’s Response
The PGMEB has taken the matter under review and awaits the college’s official remarks. The issue underscores growing scrutiny around medical credential verification and compliance with state licensing laws, especially in academic and leadership appointments within medical institutions.
The matter could lead to further regulatory and legal proceedings depending on the college’s response and findings from the NMC.
