How Does The Prevention Of Ragging Act Apply To Colleges And Universities?

Ragging in colleges and universities is a criminal offense in India. The law and University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations strictly prohibit any form of physical or psychological abuse among students. Institutions are legally bound to prevent ragging and take strict action against violators to ensure a safe educational environment.

Preventive and Enforcement Measures

UGC Regulations, 2009: The UGC (Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2009 mandate colleges and universities to adopt zero tolerance towards ragging.

Definition of Ragging: Includes physical abuse, verbal abuse, forced activities, harassment, intimidation, or psychological trauma caused by seniors to juniors.

Compulsory Anti-Ragging Declaration: All students and parents must submit an online anti-ragging affidavit during admission.

Anti-Ragging Committees and Squads: Every institution must form:

• An Anti-Ragging Committee headed by the head of the institution.
• Anti-Ragging Squads to monitor hostels, canteens, and other vulnerable areas.

Helpline and Portal: The 24x7 Anti-Ragging Helpline (1800-180-5522) and online complaint portal (www.antiragging.in) are operational for student support.

Awareness Campaigns: Institutions are required to conduct regular orientation, posters, and sessions to educate students about the legal consequences of ragging.

Legal Actions and Penalties

Filing FIR: Ragging is a cognizable offense under IPC Sections such as 323 (causing hurt), 506 (criminal intimidation), and 509 (outraging modesty).

Suspension/Expulsion: Institutions can suspend or expel students found guilty of ragging even before the court process is completed.

Denial of Admission: Students involved in ragging may be barred from taking admission in any other institution.

Fine and Imprisonment: Offenders may face a fine up to ₹2.5 lakhs and imprisonment up to 3 years, depending on the severity of the case.

University Action Mandatory: Once ragging is reported, it is mandatory for the head of the institution to file an FIR and submit a report to UGC.

Example

A first-year engineering student at a reputed college is verbally abused and physically harassed by a group of seniors in the hostel.

The student reports the incident to the Anti-Ragging Committee and also calls the national helpline.

Following inquiry, the institution suspends the senior students and files an FIR at the local police station.

The student is also provided counseling and a change in hostel accommodation for safety.

Failure to take action could have led to UGC penalties and loss of affiliation for the college.