Bhubaneswar: The Supreme Court on Tuesday questioned the decision to drastically reduce NEET-PG qualifying cut-offs after thousands of postgraduate medical seats remained vacant following two rounds of counselling.
A Bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe expressed concern over the reduction of the cut-off to the 7th percentile (103 marks) for general category candidates and to the 0th percentile (–40 marks) for reserved categories, warning that such measures could compromise medical standards and patient safety.
The court directed the National Board of Examinations (NBE) to explain the rationale behind the move, particularly in light of the critical role postgraduate doctors play in healthcare delivery.
The cut-off relaxation was introduced after a significant number of PG seats remained unfilled despite two counselling rounds, following a particularly difficult NEET-PG examination held on August 3 and amid concerns over high course fees.
Petitioners challenging the decision argued that admitting candidates with extremely low scores could endanger patients’ right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution, asserting that lowering standards in medical education has direct consequences for public health.
However, supporters of the decision contended that filling vacant PG seats is essential to address doctor shortages, especially in underserved and rural areas, and that prolonged vacancies weaken the healthcare system rather than strengthen it.
The court has sought a detailed response from the NBE, indicating it will closely examine the balance between access to medical education and the maintenance of professional competence and public safety.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing.
-OdishaAge
