The Odisha government has swung into action over alleged malpractice during the Post Graduate (PG) examination conducted by the Odisha University of Health Sciences (OUHS), making it clear that the incident is being treated with the highest seriousness.
In an official order (No. DMET-MET-MISC-0043-2026 / 20665/H dated 31.07.2026), the Health & Family Welfare Department has constituted a three-member high-level committee to conduct an in-depth inquiry. The committee is headed by Bijay Kumar Dash, IAS, Additional Secretary to Government, H&FW Department, with Dr. Bijay Kumar Mishra, Special Secretary to Government (MS), and Dr. Anil Kumar Sahu, Joint DMET, O/o DMET, Odisha, as members. The panel has been directed to ascertain all facts, identify any lapses, and submit its report within two weeks.
Preliminary findings by the authorities have already clarified a key point: **this is not a traditional question paper leak**. Sources indicate that during the ongoing examination, due to shortcomings in exam administration, someone photographed the question papers inside the examination hall and transmitted the images via mobile phone. The content is also believed to have circulated through WhatsApp groups.
In response, the government has initiated multiple parallel actions:
- A formal clarification and inquiry report has been sought from MKCG Medical College (letter No. 4006/OUHS dated 31.07.2026), with a two-day deadline for response.
- A disciplinary committee under the Dean & Principal of MKCG Medical College has been formed (letter No. 9465/MCB dated 30.07.2026) to take action against those found involved, in accordance with college rules.
- An FIR has been registered at Capital UPD Police Station (Complaint No. 24867005072600040) by the Controller of Examinations, OUHS.
The case covers electronic transmission of exam material and its spread via WhatsApp, and names both MKCG Medical College and one private medical college.
Health Department officials have made it clear that further strict measures and exemplary action will be taken based on the progress of the investigation and the facts that emerge. The government has emphasised that the integrity of medical examinations will not be compromised.
The formation of the high-powered committee and simultaneous police and institutional action signals Odisha’s zero-tolerance approach toward any form of malpractice in professional medical education.
