COVID negative report must for writing MUHS offline MBBS exams

The examination department of the University took the decision on the basis of the recent directions by the Bombay High Court order asking the students to produce a negative RT-PCR report or a negative Rapid Antigen Test report within June 15.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported that challenging the recent decision of the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences (MUHS) to conduct offline examinations from June 10 onwards, a physiotherapy student along with an NGO approached the Nagpur bench of Bombay High Court seeking directions to hold either hold the examination online or only after all the students, support staff, and teachers are vaccinated.

Although the bench indicated that it was not in favor of postponing the examination, it also stated that it could consider asking all the students to appear for the examination only after testing negative for Covid-19.

Also Read: If they are afraid of Covid-19, how will they treat patients: Bombay HC on Medicos' demand of vaccination before offline MUHS Exams

"In case an examinee is not having such a RT-PCR certificate, he can have report of a Rapid Antigen test and be permitted to appear in the examination on its basis, but may also be asked to get an RT-PCR test conducted upon himself/herself and produce a report in that regard on the next date of the examination and preferably by 15/06/2021", ordered the bench of Justice Avinash Gharote, as quoted by Live Law.

As per the latest media report by the Times of India, more than 40,000 students belonging to health science courses, including MBBS and certificate course in modern pharmacology and modern mid-level service provider certificate courses, are set to appear for the examinations.

While commenting on the University's decision of asking students to come with a COVID negative report, an MUHS official told the daily, "With the HC order, it would not be possible for the varsity to allow students to take the exam without the negative Covid test report."

However, the parents and students are still not convinced, and speaking to Hindustan Times, a parent of a medical student said, "RT-PCR test before the first paper is good, but what if a student contracts the virus after the exam begins? If a student manages to complete two out of the total papers, will they have to reappear for all exams again? Or will there be any different rules? The government needs to clarify all such issues."

"Colleges are assuring that social distancing will be maintained in exam halls, but what about hostels? Most of us will end up sharing rooms with three other students, making it easier for the virus to spread," added a student while expressing concerns.