Understanding the Definition and Current Status of Anti-Ragging Measures in India

Ragging, a pervasive issue in educational institutions, is an act that violates or is perceived to violate an individual studentrsquo;s dignity. This article delves into the definition and current state of anti-ragging measures in India, highlighting the legal and institutional frameworks in place to combat this troubling phenomenon.

The Psychology Behind Ragging

The motivations for ragging are multifaceted and rooted in the desires to assert power, deriving sadistic pleasure, and succumbing to peer pressure. Seniors may seek a sense of authority or take sadistic pleasure in tormenting freshmen. They may also fear isolation among their peers, leading them to partake in ragging. In some cases, there are tangible benefits, such as financial gains or fashion statements. While not everyone who engages in ragging does so out of sheer will, the environment can often perpetuate and exacerbate such behaviors.

A Comprehensive Definition of Ragging

In the 2001 Vishwa Jagriti Mission case, the Supreme Court provided a comprehensive definition of ragging. According to the Court, ragging involves any disorderly conduct that humiliates fellow students, engaging in undisciplined activities causing psychological harm, or generating fear among junior students. This definition encompasses a range of behaviors from teasing to psychological harm and financial extortion. The Court also noted that the motives behind ragging often include deriving sadistic pleasure, showcasing power, authority, or superiority over juniors.

Current Anti-Ragging Measures in India

Based on the Supreme Courtrsquo;s guidelines, institutions in India have been required to set up proctoral committees to prevent and address ragging. These committees monitor and regulate interactions between freshers and seniors, ensuring a healthy and safe environment. The guidelines also emphasize the possibility of reporting ragging incidents to the police if they become unmanageable or amount to cognizable offenses. This dual approach of institutional measures and legal recourse helps in effectively combating the issue.

The Raghavan Committee and UGC Guidelines

In 2009, the Supreme Court appointed a committee led by former CBI Director RK Raghavan to address the issue of ragging comprehensively. The committeersquo;s recommendations were later adopted by the University Grants Commission (UGC). The UGC issued detailed guidelines that universities were required to follow to counter ragging effectively. These guidelines, titled ldquo;UGC Guidelines on Prohibition of Ragging,rdquo; highlight several forms of ragging, including teasing, causing physical or psychological harm, and financial extortion. The guidelines mandate universities to publicly declare their commitment to preventing ragging and require students to sign undertakings that they would not engage in such activities. Additionally, the UGC places responsibility on educational institutions to take proactive measures against ragging and establishes committees comprising course-incharges, student advisors, wardens, and senior students. These committees monitor and regulate interactions to ensure a healthy and safe environment.

Legal Consequences and State-Level Legislation

While ragging itself is not a specific offense, it can be penalized under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Wrongful restraint, for instance, as defined under Section 339 of the IPC, can lead to imprisonment for up to one month or a fine of up to five hundred rupees or both. Wrongful confinement, governed by Section 340 of the IPC, can result in imprisonment for up to a year or a fine of up to one thousand rupees or both. Some Indian states have introduced special legislation to combat ragging. For example, the Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Act (1998), Andhra Pradesh Prohibition of Ragging Act (1997), Assam Prohibition of Ragging Act (1998), and Maharashtra Prohibition of Ragging Act (1999).

Way Forward

To further strengthen anti-ragging measures, there is a need to institute collaborative audits involving external experts, students, and faculty members to assess the effectiveness of anti-ragging measures. These audits can provide insights into gaps, areas of improvement, and successful practices, allowing for the refinement and adaptation of governance strategies to ensure a proactive approach to preventing ragging. Additionally, there is a need to develop a dedicated reporting portal or mobile app where students can report ragging incidents anonymously. The system could incorporate real-time notifications to relevant authorities, ensuring swift intervention. Community engagement events, such as volunteer work, community service, and social outreach, can help build a sense of responsibility and unity, reducing the inclination towards ragging.