Delhi University introduces new anti-ragging policies with immediate effect

To guarantee campus safety, Delhi University (DU) has put strict anti-ragging measures in effect before the commencement of the new academic year. Penalties for ragging include suspension, expulsion, cancelation of degrees, and ban from examinations and classes, effective immediately.

Delhi University's Proctorial Board gathered on July 25 to examine strict anti-ragging measures that will be implemented beginning this semester.

DU established a complaint procedure and related sanctions in a two-page notice on July 26 along with 11 anti-ragging measures. It stated that upon enrollment, all students and hostel residents, together with their parents or guardians, were required to sign an anti-ragging pledge.

The university will also commemorate Anti-Ragging Day on August 12, followed by Anti-Ragging Week from August 12 to August 18.

In compliance with University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, these events seek to increase public awareness of the risks and consequences associated with ragging and to foster a welcoming atmosphere for all students.

As per the notification, DU will establish two joint control centers on the North and South campuses to immediately address any incidences of ragging.

Students can report incidents of ragging through a number of channels, including the UGC Anti-Ragging Helpline no. 1800-180-5522, the anti-ragging website, and local police contacts.

The announcement further stated that anti-ragging posters in both English and Hindi had been strategically put around the North and South Campuses to reaffirm the university's zero-tolerance attitude on ragging.

Colleges and hostels have been instructed to restrict outside people access and publicly post anti-ragging policies. Each college, institution, department, and hostel must form Anti-Ragging/Disciplinary Committees and Vigilance Squads, which will monitor and report suspicious actions using NCC/NSS student volunteers.

Police pickets will be stationed outside each campus with special preparations for women's institutions. Plainclothes female officers will patrol the campus grounds to address ragging and eve-teasing.