Supreme Court upholds validity of NEET-UG qualification to pursue medical course abroad

The petitioners had challenged the regulation, arguing that it was introduced without amending the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956. However, the court held that the Medical Council had the power to introduce the regulation under Section 33 of the Act.

“We find absolutely no reason to interfere with the regulations,” the bench said. The Supreme Court also refused an exemption as a one time measure.

“Obviously, with open eyes, after the amended regulations came into effect if any candidate chose to obtain admission in a foreign institution for pursuing a course leading to a primary medical qualification, they cannot seek for an exemption from the regulations; which lays down essential eligibility criteria for practicing medicine within the country. This does not restrict their right to practice anywhere outside India,” the bench said.

This ruling implies that Indian students seeking to study medicine abroad must now qualify NEET UG to be eligible for admission to foreign medical institutions.