Man in India Allegedly Severs Own Foot to Gain Medical School Admission Quota

Uttar Pradesh. A frightening example of the lengths to which a person will go to fulfill a dream has been seen in Uttar Pradesh, India. There, 20-year-old Suraj Bhaskar severed and discarded his own foot to secure a reservation (quota) in a medical college to fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor. 

After failing the NEET entrance exam twice consecutively, he chose this dangerous path to gain admission through the disability quota. Initially, the incident appeared to be a violent attack. 

Suraj's elder brother, Akash Bhaskar, informed the police that an unknown group had attacked his brother and that he was found with his leg severed. The police immediately registered a case and began an investigation. However, during the investigation, discrepancies between Suraj's statement and the nature of the scene led the police to suspect him. 

In India, there is a 5 percent reservation system for persons with disabilities in government and government-aided medical colleges, which Suraj planned to exploit.

During the investigation, the police found Suraj's diary, in which he had written, 'I will become an MBBS doctor in 2026.' According to the police, Suraj appeared to have used a machine rather than a sharp weapon to sever his foot. 

Doctors, observing the nature of the wound, stated that it was a 'clean cut' made by a machine, rather than the result of a violent attack. Syringes found near the scene suggested he used anesthesia (numbing medicine) before cutting off his foot. 

Suraj's girlfriend also testified about the extent of his obsession with becoming a doctor. Previously, he had attempted to obtain a fake disability certificate but was unsuccessful. 

According to the police spokesperson, the accused repeatedly changed his statement, attempting to mislead the investigation. He has now been sent to a trauma center for treatment, and the severed foot has not yet been recovered. 

The police are currently uncertain about the legal action to be taken against the youth who committed such a gruesome act. Nevertheless, in his obsession to become a doctor, he has lost a foot for life.