According to officials, the man, in his early twenties, had appeared for the national medical entrance examination and later applied for admission under the Persons with Disabilities (PwD) quota. During the routine medical assessment conducted by a government-appointed board, doctors grew suspicious about the nature of his injury, which appeared recent and inconsistent with long-term physical disability norms.
Preliminary findings suggest that the injury was self-inflicted shortly before the medical evaluation. The candidate was immediately referred for further examination, and the matter was reported to the state health department and the police. A formal inquiry has since been initiated to determine the circumstances under which the injury occurred and whether any intermediaries or medical practitioners were involved.
Senior officials said disability certification for medical admissions follows strict guidelines laid down by the National Medical Commission (NMC). Only candidates with benchmark disabilities, assessed through standardized procedures, are eligible for the quota. “Any attempt to manipulate the system undermines genuine candidates who depend on this provision,” a senior health official said, requesting anonymity.
Police officials confirmed that statements of the candidate and his family members are being recorded. Investigators are also examining hospital records to establish when and how the amputation took place. If found to be deliberate and fraudulent, the candidate could face charges related to cheating, forgery, and causing grievous self-harm under relevant sections of the law.
Medical experts described the incident as deeply disturbing. “Self-mutilation for educational advantage reflects immense psychological and social pressure. It also highlights the intense competition surrounding medical admissions,” said a senior surgeon at a government hospital. He added that such actions can lead to lifelong physical, emotional, and financial consequences.
Authorities said the candidate’s application for admission has been put on hold pending the outcome of the investigation. Officials also indicated that the case may prompt a review of verification protocols to prevent similar attempts in the future.
The incident has sparked wider debate among educators and policymakers about the extreme stress faced by aspirants and the need for better counselling and mental health support during high-stakes examinations. Meanwhile, officials reiterated that strict action would be taken against any attempt to exploit welfare provisions meant for genuinely disadvantaged sections.
