Doctors condemn NMC NEET 2026 advisory restricting MBBS students' leave, demand withdrawal, apology

New Delhi: Medical bodies have strongly criticised the National Medical Commission (NMC) over its April 23 advisory restricting medical students on 2nd and 3rd May 2026 for the smooth conduct of the NEET UG 2026 examination on May 3rd, calling it unfair and demoralising.

Stating that the directive reflects a highly inappropriate and unfortunate mindset wherein medical students are indirectly being viewed with suspicion and unfairly associated with potential malpractice, the doctors demanded immediate withdrawal of the said advisory and a formal and unconditional apology to the students. 

The issue began after the NMC issued a public notice advising all medical colleges not to grant leave to students on May 2 and May 3, 2026, except in exceptional cases with proper justification. The Commission said this step was taken as a preventive measure to avoid any possible misuse and to ensure the fair conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 exam, scheduled on May 3.

Medical Dialogues had reported that the move was taken following instructions from the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education to maintain the sanctity and integrity of the NEET-UG 2026 examination. In a letter to the Commission, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, Vineet Joshi, pointed to past instances where some students of medical colleges were found to be involved in activities that could compromise the sanctity and integrity of the examination process.

In view of this, and as a matter of general deterrence, the department asked the Commission to direct suitable instructions to all medical colleges to remain vigilant and ensure that students are sensitised against any involvement in activities prejudicial to the conduct of the examination.

Acting on these instructions, the NMC directed all medical institutions to strictly comply with the guidelines of the Department of Higher Education (Ministry of Education).

However, medical bodies, including the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) and the Healthcare Reforms Doctors Association (HRDA), Telangana, have condemned the advisory, arguing that it unfairly targets medical students and creates an atmosphere of suspicion.

In a representation to the secretary of NMC, FAIMA and HRDA criticised the advisory that restricts students to their hostels on 2nd and 3rd May 2026 for the smooth conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 examination.

"This directive reflects a highly inappropriate and unfortunate mindset wherein medical students are indirectly being viewed with suspicion and unfairly associated with potential malpractice. Such an approach not only undermines the dignity, integrity, and professionalism of the medical student community but also creates an environment of distrust that is both unwarranted and demoralising," mentioned the representative. 

The associations stated that medical students across India are among the most disciplined and committed sections of society, dedicated to serving the nation’s healthcare needs. Imposing blanket restrictions without any substantial justification is unjust, arbitrary, and sets a dangerous precedent, disregarding the fundamental rights and autonomy of students while projecting them in a negative light.

As a result, they demanded the withdrawal of the notice, an apology from the NMC to the medical student community and assurance that similar measures, which compromise the dignity of the medical fraternity, will not be implemented in the future. 

Also read- NEET 2026: NMC directs medical colleges not to grant leave to students