Aher backs MMC probe in assembly

MUMBAI, March 24: Health and Medical Education Minister Daulatrao Aher today reiterated the Maharashtra Medical Council MMC was empowered to conduct a probe into the MBBS marks scandal. In a written reply to a question put forth by Samajwadi Party8217;s Sohail Lokhandwala, Nawab Malik and Bashir Patel in Assembly, he said the MMC Act vested this power in the council.

The University of Mumbai has all along maintained that it being a autonomous body, its actions can8217;t be questioned by the MMC. Going by the same logic the Controller of Examination had refused to appear before the MMC committee after summons were issued to him.

But Aher today said his government had not directed MMC to conduct the probe, it was the council8217;s own decision. He said when the opinion of the Advocate General was sought on powers of MMC, particularly under Sec 27, he told the ministry that under Maharashtra University Act, only the Chancellor was empowered to seek information or give directions to University. 8220;I have forwarded theopinion and report of the MMC inquiry committee to the Governor, who is also Chancellor of the University,8221; Aher added.