MCI moves SC for modification of order on oversight panel

The Medical Council of India has moved the Supreme Court seeking modification of an earlier order setting up a three-member Oversight Committee, headed by ex-CJI R M Lodha, to oversee functioning of the regulator of medical profession and education.
A five-judge constitution bench, while upholding the provisions of a Madhya Pradesh law which enabled government to have 50 per cent share in management seats in private dental colleges, had expressed unhappiness over the functioning of the MCI and ordered setting up of the panel headed by Justice Lodha.
"The said Committee will have the authority to oversee all statutory functions under MCI Act. All policy decisions of MCI will require approval of the Oversight Committee. Committee will be free to issue appropriate remedial directions," the bench had said.

The bench headed by Justice A R Dave had also said that the panel would function till the Centre puts in place any other appropriate mechanism in this regard.
Aggrieved by the order, the medical regulator has sought its modification saying it was based on wrong perception.
"Lobbies with ulterior motives and interest have done everything possible in their attempts to malign the name of the MCI and are further attempting to ensure that instead of getting appreciated for humongous tasks being performed by the MCI year after year - with complete sincerity, transparency and objectivity, the MCI has been finding itself at the receiving end on account of malicious propaganda against it," the MCI said.

The regulator inspects all medical colleges every year to ensure observance of minimum standards prescribed by it and grants recognition and extends them.