Parliament Member YS Avinash Reddy expressed strong concerns over the growing debate surrounding the privatization of medical colleges, stating that medical education must remain accessible to every student, irrespective of economic background. Speaking to the media, he underlined that health-related education is not just an academic field but a public responsibility where affordability and transparency must remain central.
Medical Education is a Public Responsibility, Not a Commercial Space
In his statement, YS Avinash Reddy noted that medical seats have historically provided opportunities for students from rural and financially weaker backgrounds. He warned that aggressive privatization without strict regulation could push medical education beyond the reach of deserving students. According to him, healthcare is one sector where equity cannot be compromised, and turning education into a profit-driven model would deepen social and regional imbalances.
He stated that the government must protect public institutions and ensure that private participation, if allowed, must be under strong rules and monitoring.
Concerns Over Rising Costs and Loss of Opportunity
Highlighting the financial burden of private seats, Avinash Reddy said that many talented students are already forced to leave India due to high fees in private institutions. Privatization could further widen the gap between rich and poor students, reducing opportunities for rural students who rely on government colleges for affordable education.
He emphasized that Andhra Pradesh has produced thousands of qualified doctors through government institutions, many of whom serve in rural hospitals, public health programmes, and scientific research. Any policy that restricts access will eventually harm healthcare delivery across the state.
Need for Transparency in Policy and Public Consultation
The MP stressed the importance of transparency in decision-making. He demanded clarity on how privatization would impact seat allocation, fee structure, reservation, rural quota, and bond service systems. He urged the government to hold detailed consultations with medical professionals, students, and public health experts before bringing any changes to law.
He also warned against handing public institutions to private managements without accountability. Public infrastructure built over decades using taxpayer money cannot be transferred without clear policy safeguards, he said.
Strengthening Government Colleges Instead of Privatizing
Avinash Reddy suggested that instead of privatization, the focus should be on improving infrastructure, teaching staff, laboratory equipment, and student facilities in existing government medical colleges. He pointed out that Andhra Pradesh has made remarkable progress in medical education by establishing institutions across backward regions. These facilities must be expanded rather than handed to private entities.
He stressed that the aim of medical education should be to produce qualified doctors who serve society not to convert public health into a commercial sector.
Call for Policy Accountability and Protection of Students
The MP stated that citizens have the right to question policies that affect future generations. He urged students, parents, and civil society groups to demand fair policies that preserve equal opportunity. He added that every professional field depends on strong and affordable education, and healthcare is the foundation of a healthy society.
While acknowledging the need for modernization and efficiency, he made it clear that reforms should not disadvantage poorer families. Medical colleges must continue to serve public interest first.
YS Avinash Reddy’s remarks reflect growing concerns across Andhra Pradesh as debates continue over the future of medical education. His message was direct: public welfare and student opportunity must remain the priority. He reaffirmed that he will stand by students and ensure that the state does not adopt policies that restrict educational access or compromise social equity.
As discussions move forward, students, medical associations, and policymakers are expected to closely follow the government’s next moves.
