Supreme Court Raps NMC for Not Paying Medical Intern Stipends

Supreme Court Slams NMC Over Non-Payment of Stipends to Medical Interns

Bench says young doctors work 18-hour shifts; stipend is the bare minimum they deserve

NMC given two weeks to ensure compliance across all medical colleges

By Our Legal Reporter

New Delhi: October 29, 2025: The Supreme Court of India has come down heavily on the National Medical Commission (NMC) for failing to ensure that medical interns across the country are paid their stipends. A bench of Justices Aravind Kumar and N.V. Anjaria expressed strong displeasure at the regulator’s inaction, observing that interns often work long and exhausting hours and that payment of stipends is the bare minimum they are entitled to.

The Court has now directed the NMC to ensure full compliance within two weeks, warning that further inaction will not be tolerated.

Background of the Case

The issue came before the Court through petitions filed by medical interns who complained that many colleges, particularly private institutions, were not paying stipends despite clear regulations.
The interns argued that they were being exploited as cheap labour, forced to work long shifts without financial support.
The NMC, which regulates medical education in India, had earlier issued guidelines mandating stipend payments, but enforcement has been weak.

Supreme Court’s Strong Words

The bench made several sharp observations:

“Deeply concerning and unjustified” – The Court said the failure to pay stipends despite repeated directions was unacceptable.
“Bare minimum they deserve” – Interns often work over 18 hours a day, and stipends are essential for their survival.
“Dragging its feet” – The Court accused the NMC of showing no urgency in addressing the issue.
“Wake up from slumber” – The judges said the regulator must act immediately to protect young doctors.

Why Stipends Matter

Medical interns are fresh MBBS graduates who undergo a one-year compulsory internship before receiving their final degree. During this period:

They work in hospitals, often handling critical duties.
They are expected to be available round the clock.
Many come from modest financial backgrounds and rely on stipends for living expenses.

Without stipends, interns face financial hardship, which can affect their training and mental health.

NMC’s Role and Responsibility

The National Medical Commission is the apex regulatory body for medical education in India. It is responsible for:

Ensuring uniform standards in medical colleges.
Protecting the rights of students and interns.
Enforcing regulations on stipend payments.

The Court noted that the NMC has failed in its duty by not taking strict action against defaulting colleges.

Past Concerns and Protests

This is not the first time the issue has reached the courts:

In the past, medical students’ associations have staged protests demanding stipends.
Several state governments have also faced criticism for delayed or inadequate payments.
Despite repeated assurances, the problem persists, especially in private medical colleges.

Possible Consequences of Non-Compliance

If the NMC fails to act within the two-week deadline, the Supreme Court may:

Summon senior officials of the NMC.
Impose penalties on defaulting colleges.
Issue binding directions to ensure uniform stipend payments across India.

Reactions from the Medical Community

Interns welcomed the ruling, saying it validates their long-standing demands.
Doctors’ associations stressed that fair stipends are essential to maintain morale among young doctors.
Health activists argued that exploitation of interns undermines the healthcare system.

Wider Implications

The ruling could have a nationwide impact:

It may force private medical colleges to comply with stipend rules.
It could set a precedent for better working conditions for interns.
It may also push the NMC to adopt a more proactive regulatory approach.

Conclusion

The Supreme Court’s intervention marks a critical moment for medical education and healthcare in India. By holding the NMC accountable, the Court has sent a clear message: young doctors cannot be exploited.

If the NMC ensures compliance within the two-week deadline, it will bring much-needed relief to thousands of interns who form the backbone of India’s healthcare system. The case also highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect the rights of medical students and interns.