Step into a world where education should flourish, and dreams should know no bounds. Yet, lurking in the shadows, there’s a menace that threatens the very essence of learning. Join me as I unveil the heart of a compelling issue – ragging. With the Anti-Ragging Awareness Week at NBRC as my backdrop, I present an eye-opening essay and a thought-provoking poster. Together, let’s dive into this vital conversation and work towards expelling the darkness of ragging from our campuses.
In the heart of an educational institution, where hopes and dreams intertwine, a malevolent force hides, threatening to shatter the very essence of learning. As the echoes of our efforts to raise awareness against ragging reverberate during the during the Anti-Ragging Awareness Week, a chilling incident brings the urgency of our cause into stark focus.
A dorm room, early morning, August 10, 2023 – a moment straight from gripping movie. A 17 year-old student, new to Kolkata’s Jadavpur University, falls from a hostel’s second floor. What emerges is a heart-wrenching tale – the young student had suffered cruel ragging at the hands of senior hostel mates, a torment that drove him to the edge. What’s even more horrifying ? His body was found unclothed, suggesting possible sexual harassment. This shocking incident servers as a stark reminder that we must urgently expel the evil of ragging from our campuses.
Defining the Monstrosity
The act of bullying or intimidating a junior student by his senior counterparts is infamously known as ragging and it prohibited by the law of the land. Beneath the façade of casual fun, it perpetuates humiliation, fear, and psychological trauma among the victims. This practices takes a various insidious forms, ranging from verbal taunts and forced task to physical abuse and even sexual harassment. The metamorphosis of ragging into a culture of fear and degradation reveals the urgent need for comprehensive measures to eradicate this menace. Taking note of the anguish, Justice Rajasekhar Mandha of the Calcutta High Court in the case of Salim Ahmed and Anr. Vs State of West Bengal & Ord observed that the menace of ragging can adversely impact the intellectual growth, well-being, development of society and the nation. He also highlighted that it can scar the victim students psychologically for varying periods of me, and can have devastating effect on the present and future, personal and working, lives of students.’ So in the essay we will delve into the imperative to foster campuses that thrive on respect, empathy, and a commitment to nurturing rather than tormenting young minds.
Facing the Alarming Reality
The year 2022 witnessed a disconcerting surge in ragging incidents, permeating even the halls of esteemed institutions. As per the statistics, revealed by UGC’s www.antiraggnign.in in association with Aman Satya Kachroo Trust, a total of 511 cases were registered across the country this year compared to 219 registered in 2020. The cases e reported in 2019 and 2018 were 1,070 and 1,016 respectively. The data depicts that the higher education institutions have been concerned about occurrences of ragging for a while now, and while the pandemic kept such cases under control last year, as the colleges were encouraged to go online. But the year 2021 witnessed twice as many cases as in 2020.
The Ripple Effect : Transcending Physical Bruises
The impact of ragging transcends mere physical harm, echoing deep within the corridors of the mind.Neuroscientific studies have revealed that the impact of ragging extends beyond immediate emotional distress, leaving lasting imprints on the brain. Neuroimaging techniques demonstrate heightened activity in the amygdala, triggering stress responses and the release of cortisol. Chronic stress from ragging can impair the prefrontal cortex, affecting decision-making and emotional regulation. Dopamine disruptions in the brain’s reward system lead to reduced motivation and anhedonia. These changes persist long-term, influencing stress responses, emotional reactivity, and mental health. Thus, addressing ragging is crucial not only for psychological well-being but also for safeguarding neurological health and promoting a culture of support.
The Fear and uncertainty
The social implications of ragging are profound and far-reaching, leaving an indelible mark on individuals and the broader community. This destructive practice not only inflicts immediate harm but also perpetuates a culture of fear, hierarchy, and humiliation within educational institutions. The victims of ragging often carry the scars of their experiences long after they leave campus, affecting their self-esteem, mental health, and overall well-being. Furthermore, the normalization of such abusive behavior sends a distressing message about power dynamics and acceptable conduct, eroding the values of respect, empathy, and solidarity. The ripple effects extend to families who witness their loved ones’ suffering and bear the emotional burden of the aftermath. Eradicating ragging is not just about preventing physical harm; it is about fostering a culture of compassion, inclusivity, and mutual support that reverberates through society, promoting healthy relationships and the holistic growth of individuals.
Legislative and Institutional Safeguards
The nuisance value of the evil evidently requires legal sanctions to forsake the perils associated with it. Consequently, The Indian government has enacted the Anti Ragging Act of 1997, which makes the ragging a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment and/or fine. The Anti Ragging Act also holds the institution and its authorities liable for ragging incidents that occur within their premises. However, despite the legal optimism the menace continues to not only claim lives of students but also have catastrophic impacts on their holistic well-being.
Also, In a series of significant Supreme Court judgments, the court has taken a strong stand against ragging. In R. Rajagopal v. State of Tamil Nadu (1995), it held that an individual’s right to privacy, after being punished for ragging, should not outweigh the public’s right to know. The court ordered that the names of guilty students be published on college notice boards and local newspapers. In University of Kerala v. Council of Principals of Colleges (1999), guidelines were laid down, including forming anti-ragging committees, suspending or expelling guilty students, and imposing fines on non-compliant institutions. Islamic Academy of Education v. State of Karnataka (2003) emphasized stringent punishment, extending to expulsion. P.A. Inamdar v. State of Maharashtra (2005) stated the state’s obligation to ensure UGC-directed anti-ragging measures in its jurisdiction. S.A.R. Geelani v. Union of India (2006) directed institutions to submit affidavits confirming anti-ragging measures. In Union of India v. S.K. Raju (2008), failure to prevent ragging was seen as a violation of human rights. Anand Kumar v. State of Uttar Pradesh (2009) emphasized institutions’ strict liability, extending to taking action against offenders. Anamika & Anr. v. State of Haryana (2016) extended responsibility beyond the institution. University of Hyderabad v. K. Ashok Kumar (2016) reiterated institutions’ obligation for anti-ragging measures, linked to students’ human rights protection.
The UGC (University Grants Commission) has issued numerous guidelines for the prevention of ragging in higher educational institutions. These regulations are mandatory and all institutions are required to take necessary steps for its implementation in toto including the monitoring mechanism as per provisions in the above regulations and ensure its strict compliance. The UGC has also taken several proactive steps including effective launch of Media Campaign for preventing ragging. Films in ragging are also uploaded on UGC website for use by higher education institutions.
As a step further, UGC has decided that from this year Anti Ragging Day would be observed on 12th August followed by Anti Ragging Week from 12 August to 18th August. This initiative is one of the tools of the Commission in increasing awareness against ragging. Other measures like, anti raging website, helpline are also in operation.
Limitations of Taken Measures
While legal and regulatory framework have played a pivotal role in addressing ragging, they possess inherent limitations. Many anti-ragging committees remain dormant until a gruesome incident comes to light. The persistence of ragging causes despite these safeguards underscore the need for a multifaceted approach that extends beyond punitive measures. It is abundantly clear that instilling fear of consequences alone can’t dismantle a deeply ingrained culture.
Towards a Comprehensive Approach : Cultivating a Culture of Respect
The eradication of ragging necessitates a holistic strategy centred on unity, empathy and education. It is essential to recognize that the foundation of a strong and inclusive educational community rests upon the principles of respect and compassion. Just as synapses in the brain transmit signals collaboratively, we, as students, must unite against the corrosive practice of ragging. Instead of exploiting vulnerabilities, let us celebrate our diversity and harness our collective strength to foster a campus culture characterized by acceptance and support. Universities must conduct informative sessions and workshops to instil the values of respect among students, faculty, and the staff. Also educating students about the psychological, emotional, and physical consequences of ragging, educational institutions can empower them to be vocal advocates against this practice. An overhauled anti-ragging policy, rigorously enfold with severe penalties, is essential. These efforts should be augmented by additional resources such as robust counselling services. Sensitisation initiatives, through orientation programs, posters, and mentorship system, can foster a camaraderie that content the cycle of intimidation.
Conclusion: United in Banishing the Shadows
As we commemorate the National Anti-Ragging week, we stand at a juncture that demands decisive action. Ragging represents a glaring stain on the canvas of education, but with conscious effort, we can transform it into a powerful lesson on empathy and respect. By embracing the values of unity and compassion, we sow the seeds for a campus culture that thrives on collaboration and understanding. Let us be the catalysts of change, eradicating the shadows of ragging to illuminate a brighter, inclusive future for generations to come.
