When laws are enacted, they should be forward-looking and not applied retroactively. This principle ensures fairness and maintains trust in the rule of law. Many International Medical Graduates (IMGs), including myself, applied to take the Jan-Feb 2026 MSRA with the understanding that there would not be prioritisation in the ongoing recruitment round. This was clear when we committed our time and resources to prepare for what seemed to be a level playing field. 

The recent implementation of the training prioritisation bill in the midst of recruitment process has left many of us feeling betrayed and disoriented. It's akin to shifting the goal post halfway through a football match—unfair and disheartening. Laws should not cause undue stress or psychological distress to those trying their best to adhere to existing rules and expectations. Yet, this sudden change in legislation has led to significant psychological impacts among us IMGs who are caught in this unexpected turn of events.

Our hard work, investments, and dreams of contributing to the medical field in this country are now in jeopardy. The situational anxiety and emotional turmoil faced by many cannot be understated, and it has brought about a crisis of confidence in a system that is meant to be fair and just. While we respect the new intentions of prioritisation, applying this law retroactively is not the answer and could set a concerning precedent for future legislative processes in the country.

To preserve the integrity of the recruitment process and the mental well-being of those involved, we urge the authorities to apply the medical training prioritisation bill to future applications only. Implementing this legislation for future applications ensures that everyone has a fair opportunity to compete and adapt to the new regulations in an orderly manner.

Join us in rectifying this oversight. Let us encourage a sound and fair legislative process that respects the commitments already made by candidates who are deep into their recruitment journey. Sign this petition to call on lawmakers to adjust the application of the training prioritisation bill and to protect the futures of countless IMGs who are contributing towards a robust healthcare system. Your voice and signature can make a vital difference.