The Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA), Telangana, has strongly objected to a recent advisory issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) directing medical colleges to confine students to their hostels on May 2 and May 3 in connection with the NEET-UG 2026 exam.
In a letter to the NMC secretary, the association described the directive as inappropriate and demoralising, stating that it unfairly places medical students under suspicion by indirectly linking them to possible malpractice. According to HRDA, such blanket restrictions undermine the dignity, integrity and professionalism of the medical student community.
The association further asserted that medical students represent a disciplined and dedicated group committed to health care service, and restricting their movement without adequate justification is arbitrary. It emphasised that maintaining the integrity of examinations should be ensured through effective administrative systems rather than imposing limitations on uninvolved individuals.
NMC's Intent Behind the Advisory
Ahead of the NEET-UG 2026, the NMC had directed medical colleges across the country to keep their students within hostel premises on exam days. The intent behind the advisory was to prevent any possible involvement of medical students in exam-related malpractice, such as impersonation, paper leaks, or other irregularities.
HRDA's Concerns and Demand
Expressing concern over student rights and autonomy, HRDA said the advisory fosters an atmosphere of mistrust and sets a troubling precedent. It demanded immediate withdrawal of the advisory.
The association believes that the NMC should focus on strengthening examination security through technology and robust protocols rather than imposing blanket restrictions that target all medical students. They argue that such measures are counterproductive and damage the reputation of future healthcare professionals.
