The Supreme Court of India criticized the Directorate General of Health Services for its lax approach regarding the admission of a disabled medical aspirant. The court summoned the DGHS Director General to explain the situation, emphasizing the need for accountability and inclusivity in education. This case highlights the court’s commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
New Delhi: The Supreme Court expressed serious concern on Wednesday over the “casual approach” taken by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) in addressing the admission issue of a medical aspirant from the disability category. The court has summoned the Director General of the DGHS to appear in person on December 12 at 10:30 AM to explain the situation.
A bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan remarked,
“It is unfortunate that in the matter concerning admission of the petitioner belonging to the persons with disability category, in spite of notice being duly served, none appears.”
Under normal circumstances, the Supreme Court refrains from directing government officials to appear in person. However, the bench noted,
“…in view of the casual approach of respondent number 2, we are compelled to direct the personal presence of the Director General, Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi in this court on December 12 at 10.30 am.”
To ensure compliance, the court has instructed its registrar to communicate the order to the concerned official.
The matter pertains to a petition filed by a medical aspirant with a disability, challenging a September 23 ruling by the Punjab and Haryana High Court. The high court had dismissed the aspirant’s plea for admission to the MBBS course for the 2024–25 academic session.
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The high court had addressed the issue of the disability certificate and observed that in a similar case, relief was denied based on the opinion of experts in the field of disability. The court maintained that expert opinions could not be substituted by the court’s own judgment.
The Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and fair opportunities for persons with disabilities, has taken this matter seriously. It is now examining whether procedural lapses or bureaucratic inefficiencies have adversely affected the aspirant’s right to education and equality.
The matter will be heard further on December 12, following the personal appearance of the DGHS Director General. The apex court’s intervention signals its commitment to safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring accountability in the education system.
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