Kerala to Establish State-Level Anti-Ragging Mechanism
Context:
The Kerala government is taking strict measures against ragging in educational institutions following a series of disturbing incidents. The move comes amid growing concerns over student safety and the need for stringent anti-ragging policies.
Relevance:
GS-02 (Government policies and interventions)
Key Highlights:
- The decision follows recent ragging incidents at Government College of Nursing, Kottayam, and Government College, Karyavattom, Thiruvananthapuram.
- Several students have been suspended and are facing legal action for their involvement in these incidents.
- The Education Department has instructed all institutions under its jurisdiction to establish anti-ragging cells.
What is ragging?
- Ragging is any form of physical, verbal, psychological, or sexual abuse inflicted on new students by senior students in educational institutions.
- It often includes harassment, intimidation, humiliation, and even physical violence, leading to severe psychological distress and, in extreme cases, suicides.
Legal Provisions Against Ragging in India
- Supreme Court Guidelines (2001 & 2009)
- Ragging is completely banned in educational institutions.
- Institutions must have anti-ragging committees, helplines, and monitoring mechanisms.
- Colleges must file FIRs in case of severe ragging incidents.
- UGC Regulations on Ragging (2009)
- The University Grants Commission (UGC) mandates all colleges to have anti-ragging cells.
- Colleges must conduct awareness campaigns and take strict action against offenders.
- Failure to comply can lead to withdrawal of funding and affiliation.
- State Laws
- Several states, including Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and West Bengal, have anti-ragging laws with strict punishments, including fines and imprisonment.
- Role of the Anti-Ragging Helpline
- The National Anti-Ragging Helpline (1800-180-5522) was established to assist victims and take action against offenders.
Conclusion:
This initiative aims to enhance student safety and ensure a zero-tolerance policy towards ragging in Kerala’s educational institutions.
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