NMC Withdraws Controversial Medical Education Guidelines

The National Medical Commission has withdrawn its Competency-Based Medical Education Curriculum guidelines for 2024 after significant backlash. The decision, announced via circular, cites the need for further revisions. The NMC assured that a revised version will be released soon.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has officially withdrawn its Competency-Based Medical Education Curriculum (CBME) guidelines for 2024 following intense backlash. Published initially on August 31, 2024, these guidelines were cancelled with immediate effect, as stated in a circular released on Thursday.

The circular noted, "It is informed that the circular of even number dated August 31, 2024, thereby issuing guidelines under Competency Based Medical Education Curriculum (CBME) 2024, stands 'withdrawn and cancelled' with immediate effect." The NMC emphasized its commitment to releasing a revised version soon.

The decision to withdraw comes amid controversy regarding the inclusion of topics like sodomy and lesbianism as unnatural sexual offences. These topics will be revised and reissued in the updated guidelines. The CBME curriculum was initially set for implementation in the 2024-25 academic year.

(With inputs from agencies.)