New Delhi: The Supreme Court recently dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking changes in the medical syllabus. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai clarified that the judiciary cannot decide what should be included or excluded from medical education.
Court Emphasises Role of Expert Authorities
During the hearing, the bench observed that determining curriculum is not the court’s work. “We cannot decide what syllabus should or shouldn’t be. Approach the university or government,” remarked the CJI. The court further underlined that syllabus-related issues fall within the jurisdiction of academic bodies and government authorities, not the judiciary.
Petition Left Open for Alternative Remedies
With these observations, the Apex Court declined to entertain the PIL. However, it left open the option for the petitioner to approach the appropriate academic or governmental authorities if they still wished to raise the matter further.
NMC’s Role in Medical Education
In India, the responsibility for framing and revising the syllabus lies with the National Medical Commission (NMC). This apex regulatory body oversees medical education standards across the country, revising curriculum and guidelines as needed.
Structure and Functions of NMC Boards
The NMC consists of four autonomous boards: the Undergraduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB), Postgraduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB), Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB), and the Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB). While UGMEB and PGMEB handle syllabus design for MBBS and postgraduate medical courses, MARB ensures colleges meet regulatory standards. The Ethics Board, meanwhile, governs professional conduct, ethical practices, and disciplinary actions against doctors when necessary.
