UGC steps in to ensure ragging-free campuses

Panel warns of action on institutions failing to punish perpetrators

The commission also warned that punitive actions will be taken against those failing to prevent ragging or “suitably” punish the perpetrators.

It has also directed the higher education institutions to strictly follow the regulations the commission had framed in 2009 to prohibit, prevent and eliminate the scourge of ragging. The panel had framed the regulations after an order by the apex court.

“Any violation of UGC regulations, or if any institution fails to take adequate steps to prevent ragging or act in accordance with the regulations or fails to punish perpetrators of incidents of ragging suitably, UGC shall call for punitive action against erring institutions,” the panel said in its directive to all institutions. The regulation makes it mandatory for all higher education institutions and universities, including those established or incorporated under provincial Act or a state Act, to ban ragging on their campuses and take preventive measures to check such practices.

“All institutions are required to take necessary steps for its implementation in toto, including the monitoring mechanism, as per provisions provided in the regulations and ensure its strict compliance,” the commission said.

Preventive measures

The UGC has also suggested some preventive measures to all institutions to check ragging in their respective campus.

It suggested erection of suitable hoardings, bill boards, or banners in prominent places within the campus to exhort the students to prevent or not to indulge in ragging.

Such hoardings should indicate therein the names of the officials and their telephone numbers to be contacted in case of ragging. Anti-ragging committees and squads should be set up with dedicated cadre of wardens and professional counselors “to ensure that the directions of the Supreme Court and Justice Raghavan Committee recommendations are followed without exception,” it said. The commission has also launched a toll free helpline 1800-180-5522 in order to provide assistance to students who are in distress due to ragging related incidents.