New Delhi: The medical education regulator will take strict action against the doctors allegedly involved in the deadly car blast near the Red Fort, as per statutory provisions. The move by the National Medical Commission (NMC) will follow the findings of the investigating agencies, according to two officials familiar with the matter.
A series of health professionals, including several doctors linked to the new “white-collar” terror module, have been arrested and are being investigated for suspected involvement in a terrorist plot.
The NMC is monitoring the situation closely.
The first of two senior government officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the NMC’s course of action would be decided once the investigating agencies complete their findings.
The second official emphasized the regulator’s commitment to maintaining educational standards while stressing that it was primarily a matter of law and order. Both officials pointed to the possibility of serious consequences for those found guilty.
“In extreme cases, the NMC can cancel the medical registration of the students involved if they are found guilty,” said a second official. However, the two persons ruled out the complete closure of the concerned institution, Al Falah University in Faridabad, to protect the interests of innocent students.
“Closing the college is not possible because there are other innocent students studying there,” the second official added, suggesting that the university’s apparent “laxity in governance” needed to be addressed.
Al Falah University is recognized by the University Grants Commission, while its hospital a medical schools are recognized by the NMC.
Queries sent to the Health Ministry, Home Ministry, NMC and Delhi Police spokesperson remained unanswered till press time. Inquiries sent to Al Falah University went unanswered.
Call for strong action
The medical fraternity itself has condemned the alleged involvement of any of its members. Dr. Dilip Bhanushali, national president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), a body representing more than 3.5 million doctors, expressed strong disapproval.
“Any professional abusing the position of a doctor, traditionally a symbol of compassion and service, not only erodes public trust but also damages the reputation of thousands of dedicated doctors across the country,” he said.
Dr. Bhanushali said that if the individuals are convicted after a thorough investigation, the relevant authorities must take the strictest possible action. “The association stands firmly for justice and for maintaining the dignity and integrity of the medical profession,” he said.
Both the Department of Health and the NMC are monitoring developments closely. The NMC has already ordered the installation of CCTV cameras in medical college campuses, an administrative measure aimed at increasing security and surveillance. Officials confirmed the NMC and the Department of Health would take strict action when necessary to “send a strong signal to wrongdoers”.
