Medical colleges accused of forcing students to stay in hostels
Updated: Jan 30th, 2025
The Junior Doctors Network of the Indian Medical Association has lodged a complaint with the Union Health Minister J P Nadda, accusing medical colleges across India of forcing PG residents to stay in hostels.
On February 8, 2024, the National Medical Commission (NMC) issued a public notice under the PG Medical Education Regulations, clarifying that while medical colleges must provide residential facilities, it is not mandatory for PG residents to stay in the hostels.
Despite this, the Junior Doctors Network have alleged that several colleges are compelling PG medical students to stay in hostels and mandating mess services at high fees.
This has placed a financial burden on PG residents and their families, as per the complaint. The complaint further stated that private accommodation and food services are often more affordable than the facilities provided by medical colleges.
It was also mentioned that three to four residents are accommodated in a single room, making it difficult for students to study or rest.
Basic facilities such as clean washrooms, common areas, study tables, chairs, cupboards, ventilation, and clean drinking water are inadequate in many hostels, alleged junior doctors. Additionally, the food quality in some hostels are not up to the standards.
The Junior Doctors Network has urged the Central Government to issue strict guidelines to colleges, improve hostel facilities, limit the number of residents per room, ensure cleanliness, and install CCTV cameras for safety. They also demanded standardised fees for hostels and mess services, along with regular inspections to ensure food safety in hostels.
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