
New Delhi, India – In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court has struck down domicile-based reservations in postgraduate (PG) medical admissions, declaring them unconstitutional and violative of Article 14.
The Court’s Ruling
A three-judge bench, comprising Justices Hrishikesh Roy, Sudhanshu Dhulia, and SVN Bhatti, pronounced that residence-based reservations in PG medical courses violate the constitutional right to equality. The bench emphasized that all Indian citizens are entitled to the same rights, regardless of their state of residence.
Implications for Medical Admissions
This ruling mandates that PG medical admissions under state quotas must be determined solely on merit in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). States can no longer reserve seats exclusively for their residents, ensuring a uniform standard across the country.
Reactions from the Medical Community
The decision has elicited mixed reactions. While some hail it as a move towards meritocracy, others express concerns about the potential disadvantages for students from certain states. Medical associations are calling for clarity on how this will impact future admissions.
Legal Precedent Set
This judgment sets a crucial precedent, reinforcing the principle that domicile-based reservations in higher education violate the constitutional guarantee of equality. It may influence future policies related to state-based reservations in educational institutions.
Looking Forward
As the medical fraternity and aspiring students digest this ruling, discussions are expected on balancing merit with regional representation. Policymakers may need to explore alternative methods to ensure equitable access to education across diverse populations.