CMC opposes common counselling, not NEET

Stating that their case is awaiting a verdict, Director of the College, Dr Sunil Chandy said, “The hearing has been postponed till October 11. We are not against NEET but common counselling.”

Regarding its procedure to admit students, Chandy said, “Even if a candidate scores high marks, their attitude, willingness to stay in the country and many other factors, are what we believe, essential to become a doctor.” He added that the college has challenged the concept of common counselling which insists that the brightest candidates be sent to them, which fails to align with the hospital’s philosophy.

While the institution admits 100 students for MBBS course, 192 students for postgraduate and 62 super speciality courses in an academic year, all of which have been cancelled.

They are however, conducting classes for a single student. Siddhant Nair — son of the late Major Rajesh Nair, an officer martyred in the line of duty at Doda and Supriya, a counselling psychologist — was nominated by the Centre. “Every year, the central government recommends one candidate for admission who is usually the son or daughter of a soldier. Nair’s name was recommended this year and we took him in,” said Chandy.