The Madhya Pradesh high court has reluctantly denied the petition of a doctor who sought study leave to complete her PG course. Dr Sheetal Soni, a demonstrator/tutor at Shahdol Government Medical College, had filed the petition stating her desire to pursue higher studies for the betterment of patient care. However, the college denied her leave, expressing concerns about the potential impact on their recognition from the Medical Council of India (MCI). The court acknowledged the petitioner’s legitimate aspiration but stated that the institution’s interest should take precedence over individual desires. The government counsel argued that granting leave could jeopardize the college’s recognition. The court highlighted that giving permission to appear in an exam did not guarantee admission to a PG course and that leave can be refused or canceled due to administrative exigencies.