A total of 1,240 incidents of ragging were reported in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) over the past year, with the University Grants Commission (UGC) successfully resolving 1,113 cases, accounting for 89.76% of the reported incidents.
According to UGC Chairman Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, the majority of these incidents, approximately 82%, were reported by male students from January 1, 2023, to April 28 of this year. Kumar emphasized that the high resolution rate of nearly 90% underscores the UGC's and institutions' commitment to promptly address ragging complaints and foster a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students across universities and colleges in India.
Currently, 127 complaints, constituting 10.24% of the total, remain active, and the UGC is actively working towards their resolution. Data reveals that 82.18% of reported incidents involved male students, 17.74% involved female students, and 0.08% involved transgender individuals. Complaints were lodged through the dedicated toll-free anti-ragging helpline number (1800-180-5522) and the UGC's anti-ragging cell.
In response to the persisting issue of ragging, the UGC has urged states to establish district-level panels to effectively tackle ragging in HEIs, in line with the Supreme Court's directives from 2009. These committees, comprising various stakeholders such as district collectors, university heads, law enforcement officials, and representatives from student organizations and local media, aim to proactively prevent ragging incidents and ensure swift action upon receiving complaints.
Prof. Kumar stressed the importance of collaboration among diverse stakeholders to enhance communication and coordination in addressing ragging incidents. Apart from the helpline number, students can anonymously register complaints via the UGC's secure portal, www.antiragging.in, or by emailing helpline@antiragging.in. The UGC actively monitors social media and news platforms for potential ragging incidents and takes proactive measures.
Upon registering a complaint, students receive a unique ID to track the case, with the complaint forwarded to institutional heads and the police for immediate investigation. The helpline ensures thorough investigations and shares reports with complainants while maintaining confidentiality. If necessary, the UGC can initiate re-investigations.
Prof. Kumar urged students to report ragging incidents confidently, emphasizing the UGC's commitment to fostering a safe learning environment. He highlighted the robust monitoring system's deterrent effect on institutions and stressed the importance of mutual respect, inclusivity, and student well-being.
In compliance with Supreme Court directives, the UGC collaborates with an independent NGO to monitor anti-ragging efforts, reinforcing its commitment to preventing and eliminating ragging in HEIs.
By encouraging students to utilize the anti-ragging helpline and reporting mechanisms, the UGC aims to eradicate ragging and promote a culture of respect and dignity on campuses. The Regulations on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009, underline the criminality of ragging and mandate its prevention, prohibition, and elimination in HEIs.
A pioneering company dedicated to promoting excellence in education through innovative solutions and platforms. Edu Expo Global Pvt Ltd unites key figures in Education Technology.