National Medical Commission Cracks Down on Ragging in Medical Colleges

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced a renewed focus on curbing the menace of ragging in medical colleges across India. This initiative comes in response to the recent tragic death of a first-year MBBS student at GMERS Medical College and Hospital, Dharpur, allegedly due to ragging. This notification was issued on December 5, 2024.

The NMC has expressed serious concern about the increasing number of ragging incidents reported across the country. These incidents, involving both undergraduate and postgraduate students, often involve physical and mental harassment, leading to severe emotional distress and even suicide. Reports of disorderly conduct, teasing, coercion, and undisciplined activities highlight the urgency for stricter measures.

Existing Regulations

The NMC has already established regulations for the “Prevention and Prohibition of Ragging in Medical Colleges and Institutions” (2021). These regulations outline clear duties and responsibilities for medical institutions, including establishing Anti-Ragging Squads, taking preventive measures, and submitting annual Anti-Ragging Reports.

Addressing Lapses

However, the NMC has identified lapses in compliance with existing regulations. These include:

1. Inadequate monitoring mechanisms
2. Inoperative Anti-Ragging Squads
3. Failure to submit annual reports
4. Insufficient efforts to eradicate ragging effectively

The NMC emphasizes that such non-compliance undermines the regulatory framework and puts students at risk.

The NMC has issued a strong directive to all medical colleges and institutions, urging them to:

1. Implement robust anti-ragging mechanisms as per the 2021 regulations.
2. Constitute and activate Anti-Ragging Squads for proactive monitoring.
3. Ensure widespread awareness among faculty, staff, and students.
4. Submit annual Anti-Ragging Reports in a timely manner.
5. Create a safe and conducive learning environment free from harassment.

The NMC warns that non-compliance will be met with strict action under the provisions of the 2021 regulations.