Around 200 MBBS students of Patna Medical college boycott re-test after entire batch exam cancelled over alleged malpractice

Patna: Around 200 MBBS students of the 2022 batch at Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH) boycotted an internal assessment examination, protesting the college administration's decision to cancel an earlier test for the entire batch over alleged malpractice by a few students.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that the college administration cancelled the first internal examination for MBBS 2022 batch students in the Medicine Department due to the possibility of large-scale malpractice during the exam. The written examination for around 200 MBBS students of the 2022 batch took place on May 11, 2026, while the oral and practical examinations were held on May 12.

However, soon after the examinations ended, concerns were reportedly raised regarding the confidentiality of question papers and answer sheets. Following this, the college administration received input about possible malpractice during evaluation and other procedures.

After the cancellation, the college administration scheduled the written examination for May 20 and the practical and viva examinations on May 21.

Also read- Patna medical college cancels MBBS internal exam over alleged malpractice

In protest against the cancellation of the entire examination, students boycotted the re-test, with none turning up at the examination hall for the Department of Medicine's internal assessment examination scheduled between 1 pm and 2 pm, despite all arrangements being in place.

Dainik Bhaskar reported that the faculty members assigned for invigilation reportedly waited throughout the scheduled examination period as the hall remained empty.

The students alleged that action should have been taken only against those found involved in any wrongdoing instead of cancelling the examination for the entire batch. They argued that many took the exam with complete honesty and diligence. Therefore, cancelling the entire batch's exam without a clear investigation and identifying the culprits is unfair.

Some students, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, "The administration's decision has demoralised us who had taken the exam fairly. Medical education is already demanding, and such decisions only exacerbate the mental stress."

Students also allege that the college administration made a unilateral decision without listening to their concerns. In protest, they collectively decided not to appear for the re-examination.

Meanwhile, the college administration defended its stand, saying that "Maintaining the fairness and integrity of the examination is the institution's primary responsibility. Special preparations were made to ensure a malpractice-free examination. Several medical faculty members were deployed, and a flying squad was also deployed for monitoring."

Responding to the boycott, PMCH Principal Dr Narendra Pratap has clarified that boycotting the exam is a personal decision of the students and that no new dates will be issued for the exam. The principal also indicated that students who remain absent from the examination may face difficulties in further academics.

According to sources, the second internal assessment exam is scheduled for August. This puts additional pressure on students who missed the first exam. If their performance in subsequent exams suffers, the academic year of many students could be in jeopardy.

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