'EWS' Candidates Secure PG Medical Seats Amidst Fee Concerns

In recent developments, the allocation of postgraduate (PG) medical seats to candidates belonging to the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) has stirred controversy, with concerns arising over the high tuition fees associated with these seats. Approximately 140 EWS candidates, whose families have an annual income of less than Rs 8 lakh, have been admitted into postgraduate medical courses, opting for clinical specialties through the management and NRI quotas in private medical colleges. These seats come with tuition fees ranging from Rs 25 lakh to over Rs 90 lakh per year, potentially costing candidates over Rs 1 crore for a three-year postgraduate program.

The first round of seat allocations, which took place on November 20, saw over 24,600 PG medical seats assigned across the country. Among these, 135 management quota seats and 8 NRI seats in private medical colleges were secured by candidates registered under the EWS category.

For example, an EWS candidate was allocated an MS Orthopaedics seat at Sri Lakshmi Narayana Institute of Medical Sciences in Puducherry, under the management quota, where the total tuition fee amounts to Rs 1.6 crore. Similarly, another EWS candidate gained admission to an MD Radiology seat under the NRI quota at Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital in Mysore, requiring an annual fee of Rs 91 lakh, which totals Rs 2.7 crore for the entire course.

These allocations have ignited debate and prompted questions regarding the eligibility of candidates who can afford such substantial fees while still qualifying for EWS status. Many MBBS graduates and NEET-PG aspirants are alleging a rise in the use of fraudulent EWS certificates to secure these coveted seats.

A NEET-PG aspirant, Aman Kaushik, voiced his concerns to the Times of India, stating, "It's frustrating to see EWS candidates have taken admission in colleges that charge fees in crores. Govt must cancel their seats". This sentiment is shared by many who are calling for a government inquiry into the matter to address the potential misuse of EWS reservations.

The situation has raised concerns about the integrity of the EWS certification process and whether it is effectively reaching those who genuinely need financial assistance. The significant cost of these PG medical courses, even for EWS candidates, raises questions about accessibility and equity in medical education.