NMC retracts controversial 2024 medical guidelines, promises revision

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has retracted the competency-based medical education (CBME) curriculum guidelines for 2024 amid backlash, which were issued on Aug 31, 2024.

A circular sent out on Sep 5 announced the immediate cancellation of these guidelines, stating that further revisions are necessary.

"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August 31, 2024, thereby issuing guidelines under Competency Based Medical Education Curriculum (CBME) 2024, stands "withdrawn and cancelled" with immediate effect," the circular mentioned.

The NMC has promised to release a revised version shortly.

"The above guidelines will be revised and uploaded in due course. This issues with the approval of the competent authority," the circular further stated.

The guidelines, which controversially classified topics like sodomy and lesbianism as unnatural sexual offenses, will be revised and reissued.

Previously, the commission had introduced new competency-based medical education (CBME) curriculum guidelines for MBBS students, scheduled to take effect in the 2024–25 academic year.