The Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, Act 1966
🏥 The Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, Act, 1966 (PGIMER Act)
🔷 Introduction
The Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh Act, 1966 was enacted by the Parliament of India to establish and regulate the Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) as an autonomous body. The Institute is one of the premier medical and research institutions in India, offering education, training, and advanced research in various fields of medicine and surgery.
The Act provides a statutory framework for the governance, powers, functions, and responsibilities of the PGIMER.
🔷 Objectives of the Act
Establish PGIMER as an institution of national importance.
Promote advanced medical education, training, and research.
Provide high-quality patient care integrated with teaching and research.
Develop specialized postgraduate courses in medical and allied health sciences.
Foster medical innovation, academic excellence, and public health improvements.
🔷 Key Features of the Act
1. Establishment of PGIMER (Section 3)
The Act formally establishes PGIMER as a body corporate with perpetual succession and a common seal.
It can acquire, hold, and dispose of property and can sue or be sued in its corporate name.
2. Objectives of the Institute (Section 4)
The primary objectives include:
Providing instruction in postgraduate medical education.
Conducting research in the fields of medical and health sciences.
Providing clinical services and training in various medical disciplines.
Offering continuing education for medical professionals.
3. Governance Structure (Section 5-10)
The Act provides for a robust governing body, which includes:
President: Appointed by the Central Government.
Institute Body: The supreme decision-making body responsible for overall policy and administration.
Standing Committees: Including the Academic Committee and Finance Committee for specific functions.
The Institute Body includes representatives from:
Central Government
Medical Council of India
Universities
Eminent medical professionals
4. Functions and Powers of the Institute (Section 12)
PGIMER has the power to:
Grant degrees, diplomas, and academic distinctions.
Set curriculum standards and conduct examinations.
Appoint faculty and staff.
Manage finances and property.
Collaborate with national and international institutions.
5. Funds and Accounts (Sections 15–17)
PGIMER is funded through:
Grants from the Central Government.
Donations, endowments, and income from its own activities.
It maintains proper accounts, which are audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
6. Rules and Regulations (Section 25)
The Central Government has the power to frame rules.
The Institute can also frame regulations with the approval of the Government for day-to-day governance.
🔷 Academic and Research Significance
PGIMER is authorized to conduct postgraduate, doctoral, and super-specialty courses.
It is recognized for world-class research, particularly in public health, organ transplant, cardiology, neurosciences, etc.
It also serves as a referral hospital for the northern region of India.
🔷 Relevant Case Law
Although there is no large body of litigation specifically interpreting this Act, a few cases have touched upon administrative and service matters under PGIMER’s jurisdiction:
⚖️ 1. Dr. Ram Murti v. PGIMER, Chandigarh (Punjab & Haryana High Court, 1986)
Issue: A doctor challenged the termination of his services by PGIMER.
Held: The Court held that since PGIMER is a statutory body under the 1966 Act, it must follow principles of natural justice and due process before taking disciplinary action.
Significance: Emphasized PGIMER’s responsibility as a public authority to ensure fair administrative procedures.
⚖️ 2. PGIMER v. Raj Kumar (1994)
Issue: The question involved the recruitment process and eligibility criteria for certain posts.
Held: The Court stated that PGIMER has autonomy in framing service rules and recruitment procedures, provided they are not arbitrary and follow constitutional principles.
Significance: Affirmed PGIMER’s regulatory independence under the Act, subject to fairness and non-discrimination.
⚖️ 3. PGIMER v. Dr. Anil Jain (Chandigarh CAT, 2003)
Issue: A dispute over seniority and promotion in faculty appointments.
Held: The tribunal held that PGIMER must strictly adhere to the regulations framed under the Act, and internal guidelines must be consistent with statutory rules.
Significance: Reinforced the importance of statutory compliance in service matters.
🔷 Importance of the Act
Establishes PGIMER as an autonomous institution of national importance.
Provides a legal and administrative structure for its smooth operation.
Ensures academic freedom with government oversight.
Facilitates international collaboration and research funding.
Empowers PGIMER to grant recognized degrees in postgraduate and super-specialty medical education.
🔷 Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Act Name | The Post-Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research Act, 1966 |
| Purpose | Establish PGIMER as an institution of national importance |
| Applicability | Nationwide (for PGIMER, Chandigarh and its affiliated centers) |
| Governance | Institute Body, Academic Committee, Standing Committees |
| Courses Offered | Postgraduate, Super-specialty, Doctoral, Research degrees |
| Degree Granting Power | Yes – PGIMER can grant degrees and diplomas |
| Funding Source | Central Government, grants, donations, own income |
| Legal Status | Body corporate, autonomous under the Act |
| Auditing Authority | Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) |
| Key Cases | Dr. Ram Murti v. PGIMER, PGIMER v. Raj Kumar, PGIMER v. Dr. Anil Jain |
🔷 Conclusion
The PGIMER Act, 1966 laid the foundation for one of India’s most prestigious medical institutions. It ensures that PGIMER functions with academic autonomy while maintaining accountability through statutory oversight. The Act has enabled PGIMER to become a center of excellence in medical education, research, and patient care. Judicial pronouncements have emphasized that, while PGIMER enjoys autonomy, it must act fairly, transparently, and in line with constitutional principles.
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