Chandigarh- The Post Graduate counseling process at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector-32, Chandigarh, has become a matter of concern due to delays and reported irregularities. After two rounds of counseling were conducted on 27/11/2024 and 23/12/2024, the third round has seen repeated postponements, citing administrative reasons and referencing the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s judgment dated 29/01/2025.
The said judgment held that residence-based and Institutional Preference (IP)-based reservations, beyond a limited extent, are unconstitutional. Specifically, the Court limited IP reservation to 50% of State quota seats or 25% of total seats. The Hon’ble Supreme Court also issued a clarification on 24/03/2025, reiterating this position and even imposed a fine on GMCH-32 for filing an unnecessary petition.
Despite these clear directions, GMCH-32’s latest notice dated 09/04/2025 proposes to fill all remaining State quota seats under the IP category. This move has caused confusion and concern among applicants, as it appears inconsistent and in apparent contempt with the Court’s ruling.
It is worth noting that other States have already completed their counseling rounds based on their respective prospectuses, and many have continued implementing residence-based reservations as applicable, even after the January judgment. Similarly, All India Quota counseling has concluded smoothly.
In light of these developments, many students and families have expressed apprehension that the process at GMCH-32 may lack the necessary transparency. There is growing concern that the misinterpretation of reservation policies may inadvertently affect merit-based admissions.
Additionally, it is important to highlight that a related matter concerning UT Chandigarh residents is currently sub judice in the Hon’ble High Court. The outcome of this case could further impact the interpretation and implementation of the reservation policy in this context.