Madurai: Judiciary refuses to interfere in Rs 10 lakh penalty on BDS to MBBS transfer

Madurai: Reacting on the petition of a bus driver regarding the penalty on the admission of his ward, the Madras High court refused to interfere in the matter. The bus driver had filed a a petition in the court asking for a lessening penalty of 10 lakh to discontinue his son's first year BDS course and join government medical college after the son cleared his MBBS exam. The petitioner also offered to pay the penalty in installments.

The court, however expressing its inability to give decision in the matter has asked the petitioner to approach the State Health Secretary with the request.

"If such a representation is projected by him, the secretary shall consider the same in practical, and pragmatic manner as it deems fit and proper based on facts and circumstances of the case," said Justice M Venugopal.

Justice Venogopal’s decision comes in the light of the fact that M Ayyanar, works as a driver in the state-run Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation, Madurai.

Tracing the history of the case-A Siva Subramanium , who joined a BDS course at the Government Dental College last year succeeded in getting admission in an MBBS course this year at the Government Medical College, Sivaganga. However like all others he was asked by the Selection Commission Secretary to pay the 10 lac penalty for the shift of course.

The Boy’s father M Ayyanar on the plea of being the only sole bread winner of the family decided to move court for relief. His petition sought a directive from the court to the Selection Committee Secretary for reduction of penalty and instalment payment.

The court however has rejected the request saying that if it accepted his plea, it would have to consider the 32 other students who have also got admission into other MBBS courses and have paid Rs. 10 lac to seek their respective change of courses.