NMC asks Bihar govt to conduct state-level probe into alleged MBBS exam irregularities at IGIMS Patna

Patna: After Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences (IGIMS), Patna, cancelled the 2025 second-semester MBBS examinations after an inquiry committee found irregularities in the conduct of the exams, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has asked the Bihar government to conduct a state-level probe.

The Commission has written to the Director of Medical Education, Bihar, seeking an inquiry after receiving a complaint from a Patna-based social activist, who alleged large-scale malpractice during the December 2025 examination.

The allegations are related to the December 2025 examination, and the alleged paper leak and answer sheet manipulation came to light on March 13, when an anonymous email flagged irregularities in the examination process.

Also read- Inquiry ordered in MBBS, PG exams question paper leak row at IGIMS Patna

Despite the allegations, no immediate action was taken. It was only after about 28 days that the acting director-Dean (Academics), Dr Om Kumar, constituted a four-member panel. The committee was formed under the leadership of Dr Om Kumar.

The internal inquiry committee found irregularities in the examination. Following this, the institute nullified the exam in April and issued show-cause notices to the Dean, staff members of the Examinations Section, and some students.

Now, the matter has reached the apex medical regulatory body after Patna-based social activist Chandra raised the issue.

In his complaint to the NMC, Chandra claimed that a select few students were allowed to write beyond the official duration of the test, and that question papers were made available beforehand.

The complainant also alleged that several discrepancies were discovered in answer sheets, coded leaflets and attendance records when sealed packets were opened in the Dean (Examination) room. The complainant demanded an independent investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Responding to the allegations, IGIMS deputy director and public relations officer Dr Bibhuti P. Sinha told Indian Express, "The test was cancelled and a show-cause notice has been issued to functionaries at the Dean, Examination, office and also to students in question. While anonymous mails are not entertained, the institute set up an internal committee to investigate."

However, some doctors find the IGIMS response unsatisfactory. A doctor at IGIMS, speaking anonymously, said, "Dean, examination, office should have been kept under scanner much before the rot set in. This could be the tip of the iceberg. It’s time senior doctors and administrators were made accountable for any slip-ups in the MBBS examination."

Also read- IGIMS Patna MBBS paper leak row: Panel finds irregularities, 2nd semester exam cancelled