Tragedy struck the Jadavpur University campus in Kolkata when an 18-year-old undergraduate student lost his life after falling from the 2nd floor of his hostel. Allegations of ragging have surfaced, prompting a closer examination of how Indian laws and policies handle this pressing issue. In light of this incident, it becomes imperative to scrutinize the legal landscape and strategies in place to curb ragging within educational institutions.
What is Ragging?
The Supreme Court of India, in a landmark 2001 case (Vishwa Jagriti Mission), provided a comprehensive definition of ragging. It characterizes ragging as any disruptive conduct, whether through spoken or written words or actions, that results in annoyance, psychological harm, shame, or embarrassment for a fresher or junior student, thereby affecting their physical or mental well-being. Ragging typically stems from sadistic pleasure, where seniors aim to exert dominance over juniors, exploiting their authority or power.
The Supreme Court’s Stand: Battling the Menace
The apex court vehemently condemns ragging, referring to it as a “menace pervading the educational institutions of the country.” To counter this menace, the Supreme Court issued key guidelines on anti-ragging measures. It mandated the establishment of proctorial committees to both prevent ragging and address complaints. In cases where ragging escalates into a cognizable offense, institutions are encouraged to involve the police.
UGC Guidelines: A Comprehensive Framework
In 2009, a committee led by former CBI Director RK Raghavan was appointed by the Supreme Court to tackle the issue of ragging. The committee’s recommendations laid the foundation for the University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines on anti-ragging. These guidelines encompass nine explanations of what constitutes ragging, ranging from psychological harm to financial extortion. Universities are required to publicly declare their intent to prevent ragging and ensure students sign an undertaking against engaging in such activities.
Laws to Combat Ragging: The IPC and State Regulations
Although ragging itself isn’t codified as a distinct offense, the Indian Penal Code (IPC) addresses related misconduct under various provisions. For instance, wrongful restraint, defined under Section 339 of the IPC, entails simple imprisonment up to one month or a fine of up to Rs 500, or both. Wrongful confinement, outlined in Section 340, encompasses restraining someone to prevent their movement beyond certain limits. Additionally, certain states have instituted specific anti-ragging laws. The Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Act 1998 mandates colleges to report ragging incidents to the nearest police station. Failure to comply is deemed as aiding the offense.
Way Forward
In light of recent incidents, certain actions are pivotal in curbing ragging within educational spaces:
- Accountability of Authorities: Institutions must be held accountable for preventing and addressing ragging cases, encouraging swift action.
- Enhanced Legislation: Both central and state governments should consider enhancing the legal framework to impart more substantial penalties for those found guilty of ragging.
- Campus Vigilance: Regular inspections should be conducted to identify potential ragging instances. Moreover, awareness campaigns should be organized, especially during the initial months of a new academic session.
- Support for Freshers: Initiatives to educate newcomers about available safeguards can empower them to combat ragging.
UPSC Mains Questions
- How did the Supreme Court define ragging and what drives individuals to engage in such behavior?
- What are the key guidelines set forth by the Supreme Court and UGC to combat ragging?
- Explain the legal provisions within the Indian Penal Code that pertain to ragging.
- What actions can institutions and authorities take to prevent and address ragging effectively, ensuring a safer educational space?
