The leadership change follows a CBI probe into a multi-crore bribery case, with FIRs filed against NMC inspectors, Health Ministry officials, and college representatives for clearing under-equipped institutions
Published Jul 13, 2025 | 12:24 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 13, 2025 | 6:41 PM
NMC logo.
Synopsis: Dr. Abhijat Sheth has been appointed chairperson of the National Medical Commission amid growing controversy over corruption in medical college approvals. His appointment follows criticism of opaque inspections, delayed clearances, and a CBI probe into bribery involving NMC officials, Health Ministry staff, and private colleges. The leadership change aims to restore credibility as concerns mount over the NMC’s functioning
Amid ongoing controversies over alleged corruption in medical college approvals, Dr Abhijat Chandrakant Sheth has been appointed the National Medical Commission (NMC) chairperson by the Union Cabinet, replacing Dr. Gangadhar.
At a time when the commission is facing criticism for opaque inspections, delayed approvals, and allegations of bias, Dr Sheth’s appointment comes as the NMC tries to restore credibility. Several private and government medical colleges have raised concerns about last-minute decisions and inconsistent assessment reports.
The leadership change also comes as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probes a multi-crore bribery case. FIRs have been filed against NMC inspection team members, Health Ministry officials, and private college representatives for allegedly clearing colleges without proper infrastructure in return for bribes.
Dr Sheth, a cardiothoracic surgeon by training, has worked in both India and the UK in clinical and academic roles. He completed his post-graduation in Ahmedabad and later trained further in the UK, including at St. George’s Hospital in London.
He has published research in international medical journals and served as President of the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) before this appointment. He has been appointed for a term of four years or until he turns 70, as per the NMC Act, 2019.
Meanwhile, dismissing reports that linked his exit to the bribery case, Dr Gangadhar told South First, “I had sent a formal resignation letter on 2 October 2024 (The letter is with South First), due to my ill health. I had to undergo surgery as well. It was formally accepted now.”
In his resignation letter, addressed to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Gangadhar cited serious health issues, including multiple surgeries and the need for extended recovery, as the reason for stepping down. He also mentioned the need to stay in Bengaluru with his family due to personal and domestic constraints.
Dr Abhijat Sheth, the newly appointed Chairperson of the National Medical Commission (NMC), told South First that his primary focus will be on improving the quality of medical education in the country. He said this would form the foundation of his leadership at the commission.
‘‘We need to increase focus on improving medical education,’’ he said, adding that removing unnecessary business and ensuring better governance of medical colleges are also key areas. These steps, he believes, are essential for creating a stronger and more transparent regulatory framework.
Dr Sheth stressed the importance of collective effort in regulatory reforms. ‘‘We need to work as a team. We need to get all the stakeholders with us to ensure that progress is moving in the right direction,’’ he said. According to him, collaboration will be central to achieving long-term improvements.
Regarding the ongoing controversy related to alleged irregularities in medical college approvals, Dr. Sheth declined to comment, stating that it would be unfair to do so at this moment.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
