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This incident highlights the ongoing issue of ragging in Indian educational institutions. Ragging, defined as any act of harassment, abuse, or humiliation, has been a persistent problem in India for decades, despite efforts to eradicate it. This case, where a first-year MBA student was allegedly forced to drink liquor and beaten up by seniors, underscores the need for stricter measures and a more robust approach to addressing this issue. The incident took place at a private university in the Kandaghat subdivision of Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, where three senior students have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the ragging incident. According to the police, the victim, Rajat Kumar, filed a complaint alleging that he was taken to a senior student's room and forced to drink liquor. When he refused, he was allegedly beaten up and the ragging continued until the next morning. The police registered a case against the three students under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the HP Educational Institution (Prohibition of Ragging) Act 2009. The arrested students, Karan Dogra, Chirag Rana, and Divyansh, were subsequently expelled from the university.
This case raises concerns about the effectiveness of existing anti-ragging measures in preventing such incidents. The fact that ragging still occurs despite legal frameworks and university regulations indicates a need for a multi-pronged approach to address the problem. This includes stricter enforcement of existing laws, raising awareness among students about the consequences of ragging, and promoting a culture of respect and empathy within educational institutions. The university's swift action in expelling the accused students demonstrates a commitment to addressing the issue, but more needs to be done to prevent future occurrences. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students.
This case also highlights the role of bystanders in preventing ragging. While the victim was allegedly assaulted by seniors, it is crucial to understand the role that others may have played in the incident. Bystander intervention is vital in preventing such acts of harassment and abuse. If students are aware of ragging incidents and choose not to intervene, they become complicit in the culture of silence that allows such behaviour to thrive. Universities should encourage students to report any incidents of ragging, and create a culture where students feel safe and empowered to speak out against such acts. This requires addressing the underlying social dynamics within universities and fostering a culture of respect and empathy among students. Ultimately, a combination of stringent laws, awareness campaigns, and a change in the university culture is crucial to effectively combat ragging and create a safe and inclusive environment for all students.
Source: Refused To Drink Liquor, University Student Thrashed By 3 Seniors Inside Hostel In Himachal Pradesh