The Tamil Nadu Information Commission has ordered the Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University to publish details of professors at private medical colleges. The university must also post names and qualifications of its Affiliation Inspection Committee members online. This directive follows a Right to Information (RTI) application. The university has four weeks to comply, with a deadline of August 20, 2026 .
RTI Case Sparks Transparency Order
The order originated from an RTI request filed by Arappor Iyakkam. The group sought information on inspection committee members. They also requested faculty details for private medical colleges affiliated with the university between 2022 and 2025. These details are critical for college affiliation.
The Affiliation Inspection Committee evaluates colleges before granting affiliation. They assess infrastructure, medical facilities, faculty numbers, and adherence to medical education rules. The RTI application specifically asked for the names, qualifications, and other details of committee members. Information on professors in affiliated colleges was also requested.
Commission Mandates Public Access
The Information Commission reviewed the case. It directed the university to provide the requested information. This data must be made accessible on the university's website. The commission issued a clear warning. Failure to comply could result in penalties under the RTI Act.
Arappor Iyakkam stated that greater transparency is needed. They believe the public should know who inspects colleges. Qualifications of inspectors and the faculty at private medical colleges should be public knowledge. This demand is linked to concerns about irregularities in faculty appointments and inspection processes.
The group urged the university to quickly publish college-specific details online. They asked for immediate adherence to the commission's directive.
