Several private medical colleges in Tamil Nadu have ignited controversy by commencing admissions for undergraduate programs amidst ongoing Supreme Court deliberations on NEET-UG 2024. Allegations of a question paper leak during the May exam have cast a shadow over the process.
Some institutions have chosen discreet tactics, while others boldly advertise ongoing admissions. Posters prominently display offers to ‘book’ seats for an ‘advance’ fee ranging from ₹2 lakh to ₹3 lakh.
Concerns escalate when parents inquire about admission procedures. Student counsellor Manickavel Arumugam highlighted, ‘Parents are required to attend meetings on campus after surrendering their mobile phones and electronic devices.’ He emphasised the restrictive nature of these interactions.
Once inside, prospective candidates are urged to pay ₹3 lakh upfront to secure a seat. They are then advised to prioritise colleges affiliated with deemed universities during counselling. IT professional Sudharshan Y revealed, ‘Students are promised annual fee reductions ranging from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, with the advance payment credited towards first-year fees. Additionally, scholarship certificates aim to further alleviate financial burdens.’
Sudharshan recounted assurances from an admission manager regarding over 600 available seats and expressed confidence in securing a position. ‘We were assured of a refund if unable to secure a seat despite selecting affiliated colleges as our top choices,’ he added.
Meanwhile, another institution mandates advance payments between ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, followed by document submissions for proxy application during counselling. Anand Kumar M cautioned, ‘Admission managers insist on immediate fee payment to preempt rising cut-offs in subsequent rounds.’
Authorities have unequivocally condemned these practices as unlawful. A senior official from the National Medical Commission affirmed, ‘Admissions to medical colleges must adhere to guidelines set by the Medical Counseling Committee of the Directorate General of Health Services or the state selection committee. Any upfront fee collection is prohibited.’
The official further cautioned against unauthorised admissions and urged stakeholders to await official counseling processes. ‘We urge parents and students to refrain from participating in these irregular practices,’ the official warned, noting that the commission would take action against any reported infractions backed by evidence.
As uncertainty looms over NEET-UG 2024, these developments underscore ongoing challenges in maintaining fairness and transparency in medical college admissions in Tamil Nadu. Vakilsearch can play a crucial role in advising and supporting students, parents, and institutions to navigate this complex landscape. By offering legal guidance and ensuring compliance with established guidelines, Vakilsearch can help uphold the integrity of the admissions process.
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