The National Medical Commission (NMC) recently revoked permission for the MBBS course at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME) in Katra, Jammu & Kashmir. This decision prompted the Congress party to accuse the Modi government of “communalisation of education” and demand the college’s immediate reopening.
NMC Cites Non-Compliance for Withdrawal
The NMC’s Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) cancelled the Letter of Permission (LoP) for the J-K-based college. The commission cited “serious non-compliance” with minimum standards and extensive deficiencies. These issues included insufficient faculty strength, inadequate clinical material, and lacking infrastructure.
Congress Alleges Communalization Amid NEET Admissions
Congress General Secretary in-charge Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Naseer Hussain, stated admissions to SMVD medical college were based on NEET scores. He highlighted that 42 out of 50 admitted students were Muslim. This demographic, Hussain explained, reflected the larger Muslim population in the region, with students opting for local colleges during counselling. Hussain alleged the college’s closure was linked to this admission pattern.
Right-Wing Agitation Preceded Decision
The NMC’s order followed agitation by the Sangharsh Samiti. This conglomerate of right-wing groups, reportedly backed by the BJP, had demanded cancellation of admissions. They also sought reservation of seats exclusively for students professing faith in Mata Vaishno Devi.
Questions Raised on NMC Inspection Process
Hussain questioned the timing and legitimacy of the NMC’s actions. He asked why a sudden inspection occurred and who complained, suggesting the college’s closure resulted from public pressure. Hussain also queried if proper inspections were conducted before the college received its initial MBBS course permission in September 2025.
Allegations of Misusing Regulatory Bodies
The Congress leader extended his accusation, asking if the National Medical Commission was being misused. He drew parallels to alleged misuse of other central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Income Tax Department (IT), and Election Commission of India (ECI).
Betul School Demolition Also Cited
Hussain and J&K AICC Secretary Divvya Madernna also raised concerns about a school demolition in Betul district, Madhya Pradesh. They stated Abdul Naeem invested personal savings to establish a school with required permits. Despite this, rumors branding it a ‘madrasa’ circulated, leading to its demolition by district administration without prior notice or transparent investigation, they alleged.
The Betul district administration countered these claims. It stated an illegal portion of the building was demolished due to incomplete formalities. The administration denied rumors of a madrasa or school influencing the action, confirming a shed constructed with iron sheets was razed.
Congress Demands Reopening and Inquiry
The Congress called for the immediate reopening of the SMVD medical college after corrective measures. They also demanded the rebuilding and reopening of the demolished Betul school. Both leaders sought an investigation by a high-power committee into both cases and punishment for those responsible. Madernna criticized the BJP government, stating it aims to “destroy the education system” and promote “WhatsApp University” curriculum.