Jahanvi Agarwal
The Bombay High Court recently affirmed the authority’s decision to deny entry to a petitioner into the examination hall due to his failure to carry a hard copy of the Medical Registration certificate issued by the Medical Council.
The Division Bench of Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge and Justice Y.G Khobragade observed that “We are reminded of the movie ‘Munnabhai MBBS’, and it would not be too much to say that there are several candidates who resort to such practices”.
The court acknowledged the prevalence of technological advancements leading to malpractices in examinations, such as the fabrication of admit cards and identity cards. In light of these challenges, the court emphasized the importance of adhering to standing instructions for students.
In the case, the petitioner, a medical practitioner with an M.D. qualification, applied for the D.M. entrance exam in 2022 but chose not to join the allotted college. During the 2023 exam, he was denied entry as he did not carry a hard copy of his Medical Registration certificate. The court held that the authorities were justified in their decision, emphasizing that the petitioner should take responsibility for not strictly following the instructions.
The court highlighted the impracticality of allowing candidates to carry electronic gadgets beyond the security point, considering the potential for malpractices. It noted that the petitioner’s failure to carry the required certificate was not intentional, but he must bear the consequences. The court dismissed the petition, stating that directing authorities to conduct a fresh examination solely for the petitioner would be unreasonable in the given circumstances.
The judgment underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of examinations and the need for candidates to comply with prescribed instructions, acknowledging the challenges posed by technological advancements in the academic domain.
Case Name: Dr. Shyamsundar v. Union of India and Anr.
Diary Number: 12792/2023
Bench: Justice Ravindra V. Ghuge and Justice Y.G Khobragade