The move follows demands by junior doctors for enhanced transparency in MBBS examinations
The West Bengal University of Health Sciences (WBUHS) has announced new measures to ensure transparency in MBBS examinations, including CCTV surveillance and live streaming in medical colleges across the state. The changes are part of revised standard operating procedures (SOPs) developed in response to directions from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who also serves as the state’s health minister.
The reforms include anonymised answer sheets with barcodes instead of student names and an odd-even roll number seating arrangement to minimise the possibility of malpractice. “The CCTV footage of each day’s examination will be submitted to the university in a dedicated folder and retained for at least a year,” a WBUHS official stated.
The move follows demands by junior doctors for enhanced transparency in MBBS examinations. The demands were part of protests after the tragic death of a woman medic on 9 August, an incident that sparked widespread agitation among medical professionals. Junior doctors had outlined ten specific demands, urging authorities to address issues such as examination irregularities and lapses in healthcare governance.
“This step is expected to curb allegations of unqualified students receiving MBBS degrees despite inadequate attendance or academic performance. It’s a positive step towards restoring trust in the system,” said a junior doctor who participated in the protests.
The revised SOPs align with assurances given by Chief Minister Banerjee to address the concerns raised during the agitation. “The changes aim to bring fairness and accountability to the examination process while upholding the credibility of medical education in the state,” the WBUHS official added.
The reforms are anticipated to improve the overall academic environment and, in turn, strengthen the quality of medical services in West Bengal.
