IN the midst of the COVID-19 lockdown, a group of Post Graduate medical students and their parents in Maharashtra claimed to have unearthed a scam involving Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota admissions. They alleged that some rich people have acquired EWS certificates, snatching away the opportunity from those really in need.

Close to 200 students and parents got together in March to conduct an inquiry after the PG Medical admissions seat metrics were declared. They identified a few candidates who took admission under EWS category and started checking their personal background and even spoke to them. By May end, the group shortlisted nearly 12 candidates who did not belong to the EWS category but took advantage of the quota.