Supreme Court Demands Action: Stipend Payments for Medical Interns Under Scrutiny

The Supreme Court criticized the National Medical Commission for failing to ensure stipend payments to medical interns, labeling the oversight as 'deeply concerning.' The court demanded immediate action and compliance documentation from the NMC, highlighting the interns' long working hours and the unjustified delay in payments.

The Supreme Court issued strong criticism against the National Medical Commission (NMC) on Tuesday for its lack of action regarding unpaid stipends to medical interns nationwide. The top court labeled the delay 'deeply concerning' and 'unjustified,' acknowledging the extensive hours young doctors work.

A bench comprised of Justices Aravind Kumar and NV Anjaria expressed dissatisfaction with the NMC's inaction. They noted that interns often endure shifts exceeding 18 hours, underscoring that stipends are 'the bare minimum they deserve.' The bench urged the NMC to seriously address the delayed payments, compelling the body to wake up from its inertia.

The interns, represented by advocate Tanvi Dubey, have pursued legal action against various medical colleges for non-payment. The bench demanded the NMC file an affidavit within two weeks demonstrating compliance with its own notice dated July 11, 2025, and detailing concrete actions taken to ensure stipend disbursement.

(With inputs from agencies.)