As incidents of ragging emerge in Jammu & Kashmir, a proactive and unified effort is essential to ensure a safe and nurturing academic environment for all students
It is widely acknowledged that after the home—often regarded as the primary nurturing ground—educational institutions play a crucial role in shaping an individual’s evolution. These institutions are designed to impart knowledge, cultivate skills, instill values, and equip students to become diligent citizens who contribute meaningfully to societal advancement. However, upon their induction into these institutions, many students are subjected to a detrimental practice that affects their physical and mental well-being—commonly known as “ragging.”
Origins
The concept of “ragging” traces its roots back to Greek culture during the 7th or 8th century AD when newcomers to the Olympic sports community underwent initiatory rituals designed to instill a sense of teamwork. Later, it became a norm in English army schools, where recruits were bullied by their seniors on duty. Upon returning to college, these recruits mimicked the same practice with their juniors. Eventually, this tradition extended to medical and engineering colleges.
Ragging constitutes any disorderly conduct that involves teasing, harassing, or handling another student discourteously, causing annoyance, hardship, or psychological harm. It also includes coercing a fresher to perform acts that could harm their physical or mental well-being. Initially akin to Western “hazing,” ragging began with jokes and verbal abuse but evolved into a malicious practice. Originally intended to build camaraderie between juniors and seniors, ragging deteriorated into a tool for asserting superiority, with seniors subjecting juniors to humiliation and hooliganism.
Ragging often perpetuates a harmful cycle, where students who were ragged by their seniors later inflict the same abuse on their juniors, driven by a desire for revenge and the belief, *”If we had to endure it, why shouldn’t they?”* In India, ragging first gained national attention in 1996 when Pon Navarasu, a medical student in Tamil Nadu, died as a result of ragging. The incident sparked nationwide concern. In 2009, following the death of Aman Kachru in Himachal Pradesh, the Supreme Court of India mandated strict enforcement of anti-ragging laws. The court issued key rulings, including the Vishaka Guidelines (1997), the 2002 judgment, and UGC Guidelines (2009).
Ragging in Jammu & Kashmir
Although ragging in Jammu & Kashmir is not yet prevalent, it shows potential for growth if not addressed promptly. While reported cases remain relatively low, they indicate a concerning trend that could escalate. Ragging has recently been reported in various institutions across J&K, including some notable instances:
– 2022: GMC Srinagar framed charges against three students in a ragging-related case.
– May 2024: Four students at GMC Rajouri were involved in a ragging incident; the college took swift action by suspending them.
– February 2024: Nine students were suspended by GMC Rajouri authorities on charges of ragging.
– January 2024: Six students were accused of ragging a junior at GMC Jammu.
– April 2021: Third-semester students at Kashmir Law College suffered severe harassment from seniors, leading one female student to attempt suicide due to relentless abuse.
However, these incidents represent only those that capture public attention. Countless others likely remain concealed, as juniors hesitate to report cases due to fear of retaliation. The potential for further bullying or victimization discourages students from lodging complaints, allowing perpetrators to continue their actions unchecked. This reflects a failure in oversight by authorities, who should be conducting regular audits and instituting proactive measures to prevent such behaviour.
Way Forward
Addressing the fundamental causes of ragging before it worsens is pivotal in fostering a safer and more respectful academic environment. Stringent regulations regarding ragging in Jammu & Kashmir were better implemented through *The Jammu & Kashmir Prohibition of Ragging Act, 2011*. This legislation established a holistic framework to combat ragging both within and outside educational institutions by enforcing penalties and suspending offenders. The act also mandates educational institutions to adopt rigorous measures to eradicate ragging, including:
– The inclusion of a clear anti-ragging clause in the prospectus.
– Establishing helplines to assist victims seeking support.
– Conducting awareness programs for students and faculty members.
– Ensuring stricter monitoring and disciplinary actions.
Ragging remains a serious issue in educational institutions across Jammu & Kashmir, impacting students and eroding the values of respect and equality. While ragging may not yet be the focal concern, the increasing frequency of cases—exemplified by the three reported in 2024—signals its growing presence. Although steps have been taken to curb this menace, a more integrated approach is essential. Only through collective efforts from students, faculty, and authorities can we hope to create a safe and nurturing academic environment for all.
The writer is a Political Science student at the University of Delhi
Sheikh Faaiz
sh*************@***il.com