Case Note & Summary
The Supreme Court addressed a writ petition filed by MBBS graduate doctors concerning the NEET-PG 2022 examination schedule. The petitioners sought to quash a notification issued by the National Board of Examinations (NBE) on 4 February 2022, which scheduled the examination for 21 May 2022, arguing that it conflicted with the ongoing counselling for NEET-PG 2021. They requested a postponement of the examination and an extension for registration. The Court heard arguments from both sides, with the petitioners emphasizing their rights under Articles 14 and 21 of the Constitution, while the respondents highlighted the public interest in maintaining the examination schedule to ensure adequate patient care. The Court noted that the academic session had already been delayed and that further postponement would adversely affect the availability of resident doctors in hospitals. The Court found that the petitioners had not been barred from registering for NEET-PG 2022 and that a significant number of doctors had already registered. The Court concluded that the decision to adhere to the examination schedule was made with due consideration of public interest and the needs of medical education. Ultimately, the Court dismissed the petition, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the examination schedule for the benefit of patient care and the medical community.
Headnote
A) Constitutional Law - Article 32 - Jurisdiction of Supreme Court - The petitioners invoked Article 32 of the Constitution seeking postponement of NEET-PG 2022 examination due to ongoing counselling for NEET-PG 2021. The Court held that the decision to adhere to the examination schedule was made in public interest and to ensure availability of resident doctors, thus dismissing the petition (Paras 1-15).
Issue of Consideration
Whether the NEET-PG 2022 examination should be postponed due to ongoing counselling for NEET-PG 2021.
Final Decision
The Supreme Court dismissed the petition, stating that postponement would adversely affect patient care and the availability of resident doctors.
Law Points
- Article 32
- fundamental rights
- public interest
- medical education
- patient care
