The National Medical Commission (NMC) told the Kerala High Court that medical colleges cannot charge tuition fees beyond the prescribed 4.5-year MBBS course duration. The NMC submitted this position in response to a petition challenging its order. The order directed colleges to refund fees collected for an extra six months.
NMC Clarifies Fee Collection Rules
The NMC stated that medical colleges are not allowed to collect fees after the 54-month academic period. This applies even if administrative delays or exam schedules extend the overall time. The commission receives many complaints from students nationwide about this practice.
The NMC emphasized a clear distinction between the academic curriculum and the internship period. The National Medical Commission Act, 2019, sets the academic curriculum at 54 months, or 4.5 years.
Academic vs. Internship Period
The academic calendar covers 4.5 years of study. This is the only period during which institutions can charge tuition fees. The NMC stated this in its submission to the court.
Following the academic period is a Compulsory Rotating Medical Internship (CRMI). This lasts for one year. The internship involves practical, supervised hospital services. It is a training component.
The NMC argued that charging fees for five or five-and-a-half years is unjust enrichment. Students receive stipends during their internship. They are providing hospital services, not studying.
Court Proceedings
The Kerala High Court had previously issued a three-month stay. This stay was on the NMC's direction for fee refunds. The NMC's current submission outlines its legal stance on the matter.
