Chhattisgarh HC Seeks State’s Response on Domicile-Based Reservation in PG Medical Admissions

The Chhattisgarh High Court is currently examining a plea that challenges the state's PG Medical Admission Rules, alleging that they create an unconstitutional domicile-based reservation. This legal action has significant implications for aspirants across the state.

In a significant development for postgraduate medical aspirants in Chhattisgarh, the High Court has sought a reply from the state government regarding a writ petition that challenges the validity of the State Medical Post Graduate Admission Rules, 2021. The petition, filed by a medical graduate, contends that certain provisions of the rules are unconstitutional and amount to an impermissible domicile-based reservation, violating Article 14 of the Constitution, which ensures the right to equality.

Allegations of 100% Reservation Through Rule 11

The petitioner’s counsel highlighted that Rule 11(a) gives preference to candidates who either completed their MBBS from a medical college in Chhattisgarh or are currently serving in the state. Further, Rule 11(b) stipulates that only if seats remain vacant after such admissions, they may be offered to students who are domicile residents of Chhattisgarh but studied MBBS outside the state. According to the petitioner, this two-tier system effectively results in 100% reservation for in-state MBBS graduates, discriminating between equally placed domicile candidates.

The counsel cited the Supreme Court judgment in Dr. Tanvi Bhel v. Shrey Goel, where it was held that residence-based reservations are impermissible in postgraduate medical courses. The apex court clarified that, apart from a limited institutional preference, state quota seats must be filled strictly on merit through NEET-PG rankings.

Court Proceedings and Implications for Aspirants

The Division Bench, comprising Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha and Justice Bibhu Datta Guru, has directed the state government to file its response within two weeks, while allowing the petitioner an additional two weeks for rejoinder. The final verdict could significantly reshape the admission landscape for postgraduate medical education in Chhattisgarh, directly impacting thousands of aspirants.

This case underscores the complexity of reservation policies in higher education, where legal interpretations often determine access and opportunity. Aspirants are advised to stay updated, as any modification in the admission process may affect upcoming counselling rounds.