When DNA tried contacting officials at the MCI, they refused to comment on the issue stating that the conditions for admission are decided by the National Board of Examinations (NBE).
A city-based psychiatrist has raised concerns over a norm that bars students with neurosis, psychosis, mental retardation from applying for a post graduate seat in medical colleges across the country.
Renowned psychiatrist Dr Harish Shetty has recently written to the Minister of Health, Government of India and the Medical Council of India (MCI) objecting to the proforma of medical fitness certificate which students have to submit before attempting the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)-PG examinations as per the 2018 guidelines.
As per the proforma, one of the conditions that the student has to fulfill to be declared medically fit is 'absence of neurosis/psychosis/mental retardation'. Shetty said that deeming students with these psychological conditions unfit for a PG medical course is unjust. "Today, one can find a widespread prevalence of depression and panic disorders across the country. Many students who complete their MBBS undergo stress-related disorders but they can still function well with the appropriate treatment. Putting such a condition is absurd and shows the government's lack of awareness about mental health," said Shetty.
Dr Ajit Bhide, President, Indian Psychiatric Society said that the concerns raised by Dr Shetty were valid. "I see at least 30 such patients every year who are successful in their work even with these conditions.The Indian Psychiatric Society is soon going to write to the MCI and the health ministry against the norm," said Dr Bhide.
Dr Sagar Mundada, consulting psychiatrist, said, "Such a blanket rule is wrong but if an evaluation has to happen, it needs to be on a case to case basis which only a psychiatrist can do."
When DNA tried contacting officials at the MCI, they refused to comment on the issue stating that the conditions for admission are decided by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). Officials at NBE remained unavailable for comment.
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