MBBS, BDS admissions resume in private colleges after government assurance on dues

AMUPMDC had previously declared on October 2 that admissions would be halted at the institutional level, citing outstanding reimbursements of Rs 30-50 crore per year, owed by the government to each college under various fee-reimbursement schemes. This decision came shortly after the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell declared seat allotments for Round 2 of the Common Admission Process (CAP) for undergraduate medical admissions.

The decision to stall admissions had caused significant anxiety among candidates and their parents, many of whom were turned away from private colleges when they arrived to confirm their seats. With the deadline for confirming admissions set for October 6, the situation created widespread unrest among students. However, with AMUPMDC’s decision to resume admissions, the process is now back on track for those allotted seats in Round 2 at private medical and dental colleges.

In its October 5 letter, AMUPMDC stated, “All private medical/dental colleges affiliated with the association will participate in the ongoing Round 2 admissions, while we continue to pursue the government for the resolution of outstanding concerns.” The letter refers to an October 4 communication from the state government’s Medical Education department, which provided written assurances.

The government’s letter indicated that a meeting had been held on October 3 with various departments concerned to expedite the disbursement of pending dues. The Social Justice and Special Assistance, Tribal Development, and other departments were instructed to review the total dues owed to the students admitted under government schemes in private colleges and initiate the clearance process. It was also noted that 60-75 percent of the amount comes from the Central government.

The letter further cited Supreme Court guidelines, urging the association to avoid further delays in admissions, as this could be considered contempt of court.

Although the admission process has resumed, students have only one day remaining to confirm their seats. Given that this falls over the weekend, parents have expressed hope for an extension due to travel logistics. However, the Maharashtra CET Cell has stated that no such demand for an extension has been made. “Admissions will continue through Sunday, and private colleges have assured that the process will be completed as per the scheduled deadline,” said an official from the CET Cell.