By our correspondent
KARACHI: Justice Salahuddin Panhwar has directed that the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) be re-conducted within four weeks, amid growing concerns about irregularities in the examination process. Emphasizing the need for clarity, he stated, “We cannot leave students in a state of uncertainty,” underlining the importance of safeguarding the future of those who took the exam. The hearing was held by a bench comprising Justice Panhwar and Justice Amjad Ali Sahito, who addressed petitions regarding alleged discrepancies in the MDCAT.
During the proceedings, the court scrutinized the effectiveness of the committee previously tasked with investigating the issues, posing the pointed question: “Did the committee work or just rest at home?” Committee Chairperson Shireen Narejo presented the findings, revealing significant flaws in the examination system overseen by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) and Dow University. The court highlighted the distinct role of a testing agency, cautioning against complicating responsibilities by involving universities like Jinnah Sindh University and Dow University.
Narejo informed the court that the committee reviewed Dow University’s examination procedures and examined statements and evidence provided by petitioners. Some students had contacted the committee, advocating against re-conducting the exam, and their statements were duly recorded. However, the investigation uncovered substantial irregularities, suggesting that around 40 to 42 individuals were responsible for managing the examination system, raising serious concerns about its integrity.
The court’s inquiry deepened when Justice Panhwar asked, “If the mechanism was compromised, does that mean the paper was leaked?” Narejo responded affirmatively, stating that answers and various questions had been circulated on WhatsApp. Panhwar reiterated the gravity of the situation, asserting that “no games should be played with the students” and reaffirming the necessity for transparency.
The PMDC’s lawyer acknowledged that an inquiry was underway into those responsible, including an investigation into the alleged paper leak. Justice Panhwar expressed frustration with the PMDC’s oversight, stating, “You are playing into the hands of powerful people. You have no control over other universities.” When pressed about the financial aspect, the PMDC lawyer could not provide specific figures, prompting Justice Amjad Ali Sahito to suggest that the organization must have received over Rs45 million in connection with these exams. Panhwar added, “Your authority seems to only extend over those who are less privileged.”
