MBBS Seats At AIIMS Not For Sale, Securing Them Through Unlawful Means Opposed To Public Policy: Delhi High Court

The Delhi High Court has observed that the seats in MBBS course at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) are not for sale and securing them through unlawful means is immoral and opposed to public policy.

Justice Jasmeet Singh upheld a trial court order dismissing the suit filed by a mother seeking recovery of Rs. 30 lakhs given to an individual to secure admission of her daughter for MBBS course at AIIMS.

The court dismissed the mother's plea as being devoid of merits and observed that prima facie, the mother had indulged in an illegality.

“It is a known fact that AIIMS is one of the most prestigious medical colleges in India. Children who secure admission through merit invest diligent effort and hard work, which also involves getting through various rigorous and competitive processes,” the court said.

It added: “The seats in MBBS Course at AIIMS are not for sale. It is incumbent upon the Courts to safeguard the integrity of the education system. The appellant may be gullible but this Court cannot come to the assistance of a person who has participated in the illegality as noted above.”

It was the mother's case that the individual who induced her to secure an admission seat of her daughter at AIIMS claimed to have a contact with the Union Health Minister as well as higher officials of AIIMS.

“A perusal of the same shows that the consideration in the present case i.e. for securing a seat for MBBS at AIIMS through unlawful means is an unlawful object, forbidden by law, immoral as well as opposed to public policy,” Justice Singh said while upholding the trial court order.

The court added that corruption is deep rooted in the society and thus, it is imperative on the respective authority to take stern action in accordance with law so that such malpractice is prevented in future.

“The order be communicated to Mr. Sanjay Lao, learned Standing Counsel (Criminal) to be taken with the concerned DCP so that such incidents are prevented in the future. The Registry shall send the copy of this order to Mr. Lao, learned Standing Counsel (Criminal) for necessary action,” the court said.

Title: SMT. VIMMI CHAWLA v. DEEPAK SETHI

Citation: 2023 LiveLaw (Del) 1227

Click Here To Read Order