On January 22, 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued an important notification reminding higher educational institutions (HEIs) about the menace of ragging and emphasizing the mandatory nature of the UGC Regulations on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009.
The UGC aims to reiterate the severity of ragging as a criminal offense and urges institutions to take immediate and comprehensive steps to prevent it.
Key Highlights of the Notification
Strict Enforcement of Anti-Ragging Regulations:
- The UGC has made it clear that these regulations are mandatory for all educational institutions, and any violations will lead to punitive action by the UGC. Institutions are required to fully implement these regulations, including setting up monitoring mechanisms and taking steps to prevent ragging.
Enhanced Anti-Ragging Measures:
- Educational institutions are encouraged to step up their anti-ragging efforts through various means such as:
- Publicizing anti-ragging measures using multiple mediums.
- Forming Anti-Ragging Committees and Squads, and setting up Anti-Ragging Cells.
- Installing CCTV cameras in sensitive areas.
- Organizing workshops and seminars to educate students.
- Displaying anti-ragging posters at strategic locations such as Admission Centers, Hostels, Libraries, and Canteens.
- Conducting surprise inspections of hostels and student accommodations.
Role of Mentorship:
- Institutions are encouraged to implement the mentor-mentee system to foster better relationships between juniors and seniors and create a more comfortable and supportive environment.
Legal Provisions for Severe Cases:
- In extreme cases of ragging or related incidents, including suicides, the Principal of the college and Registrar of the University will be held accountable and will have to answer to the National Anti-Ragging Monitoring Committee.
Mandatory Online Undertaking:
- Students and parents must submit an online undertaking at the start of each academic year via the National Anti-Ragging Website (www.antiragging.in). This online affidavit confirms their commitment to preventing ragging.
Regular Monitoring and Surprise Checks:
- The Anti-Ragging Monitoring Agency has been instructed to carry out surprise inspections to ensure compliance with the UGC regulations and to monitor how institutions are adhering to these guidelines.
Public Awareness Campaign:
- To further combat ragging, the UGC has launched an Anti-Ragging Media Campaign.
- This includes:
- TV commercials targeted at parents, victims, and offenders.
- The distribution of posters to various educational institutions.
- Anti-Ragging Competitions to increase awareness among students, faculty, and the general public.
Establishment of Emergency Support Channels:
- Students facing distress due to ragging can contact the National Anti-Ragging Helpline at 1800-180-5522 (24×7 toll-free). For additional support, students can email helpline@antiragging.in or contact the Centre for Youth (C4Y) at 09818044577 (emergency cases).
