UGC directs higher education institutions to strictly enforce anti-ragging rules

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed universities and colleges to strictly enforce regulations aimed at preventing and eliminating ragging on higher education campuses.

In a public notice, the commission called for effective implementation of the UGC Regulations on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009, and emphasized a zero-tolerance approach toward the practice.

The UGC said institutions must strengthen their anti-ragging systems, raise awareness among students and ensure complaints are addressed promptly. The directions follow the Supreme Court's May 8, 2009, judgment in Civil Appeal No. 887 of 2009.

Under the directions, higher education institutions must constitute anti-ragging bodies and ensure that they function effectively in accordance with the prescribed regulations.

Universities and colleges have also been asked to prominently display the 24x7 anti-ragging toll-free helpline number, 1800-180-5522, along with posters and other awareness materials on campus.

Students and parents must submit anti-ragging undertakings through the official anti-ragging portal. Institutions have been advised to organize orientation, counseling, awareness and sensitization programs to educate students about the prevention of ragging.

The commission has called for heightened monitoring of hostels and other areas considered vulnerable to ragging. Institutions must ensure that complaints are addressed without delay, complainants are protected and cases are reported to the relevant authorities promptly.

Where a prima facie case of ragging is established, institutions have been directed to ensure immediate registration of a First Information Report and initiate disciplinary proceedings as required.

The UGC has asked higher education institutions to give anti-ragging measures the highest priority and ensure that all affiliated colleges under their jurisdiction comply with the prescribed regulations.