The Supreme Court has sharply criticized the National Medical Commission (NMC) for its failure to ensure that medical interns across the country receive their due stipends.
Terming the lapse as “deeply concerning” and “unjustified,” the apex court expressed dismay that despite the crucial role interns play in hospitals and healthcare delivery, many are still being denied their basic entitlement.
A bench comprising Justices Aravind Kumar and NV Anjaria noted that medical interns often work over 18 hours a day, calling the payment of stipends “the bare minimum they deserve.” The court directed the NMC to ensure full compliance within two weeks and sought an action-taken report on the issue.
The observation comes amid growing concerns over the working conditions of medical interns, who have repeatedly raised the issue of unpaid or delayed stipends in several states. The court’s directive is expected to bring much-needed relief and accountability to the system.