The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a circular directing all medical colleges and institutions under its regulation to set up an “Enabling Unit” for students with benchmark disabilities (PwBD). The order cites Sections 16 and 17 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, along with directions of the Supreme Court in Om Rathore v. Director General of Health Services & Ors. and a related order in Anmol v. Union of India & Ors.
What Is an Enabling Unit
An Enabling Unit will act as a single point of contact within each medical college for students with benchmark disabilities. It is meant to make sure disabled students get the support they need throughout their course, including during clinical training and internship.
Key Responsibilities of the Enabling Unit
- Facilitate reasonable accommodation, academic and clinical support measures and barrier-free access within the institution.
- Receive and address requests for disability-specific accommodations during the course, including clinical training and internship.
- Share information about the Enabling Unit’s role and contact details with all students at the time of admission, and through the institution’s website and notice boards.
- Coordinate with the designated Disability Assessment Board, faculty and hospital administration to ensure timely implementation of reasonable accommodation.
- Maintain records of requests and accommodations provided, while ensuring confidentiality and non-discrimination.
What This Means for Students
All medical colleges have been directed to ensure that their Enabling Unit is functional, well-publicised, and easily accessible to students with benchmark disabilities. For PwBD candidates joining MBBS courses, this means every college should now have a clear point of contact to help with accommodation needs, rather than having to approach faculty or administration separately.
