Government Nursing College in Kottayam, Kerala, five third-year students have been arrested following serious allegations of ragging lodged by three first-year students. The complaints, filed with the Gandhinagar police, detail a harrowing pattern of abuse that reportedly began in November 2024 and persisted for nearly three months.
According to the filed complaints, the senior students allegedly compelled the newcomers to disrobe and subjected them to severe physical abuse, including the use of weightlifting dumbbells. The juniors also reported being wounded with sharp instruments like compasses, after which lotions were applied to their injuries, exacerbating their pain. Further, the victims claimed they were coerced into applying creams on their faces, heads, and mouths, actions that added to their humiliation.
The complaints also highlight a pattern of financial exploitation, with seniors reportedly demanding money from juniors on Sundays to purchase alcohol. Those who resisted or failed to comply allegedly faced physical assaults. The sustained nature of this abuse led the three first-year students to approach the police, unable to endure the torment any longer.
In response to these serious allegations, the police have arrested five third-year students. The authorities have assured a thorough investigation to ensure that justice is served and to uphold the safety and dignity of all students within the institution.
Ragging, a term used in South Asia to describe initiation rituals that often involve abuse and humiliation, has been a persistent issue in educational institutions across India. Despite stringent anti-ragging laws and awareness campaigns, incidents continue to surface, underscoring the need for more effective enforcement and cultural change within academic environments.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) of India has established regulations to curb ragging, mandating educational institutions to take strict measures against such practices. These regulations include the formation of anti-ragging committees, regular monitoring, and severe penalties for those found guilty of engaging in ragging activities.
The recent incident at the Government Nursing College in Kottayam serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that remain in eradicating this menace. It highlights the importance of continuous vigilance, prompt action by authorities, and the cultivation of a campus culture that promotes respect and inclusivity.
As the investigation progresses, it is hoped that justice will be delivered swiftly and that measures will be reinforced to prevent such incidents in the future, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all students pursuing their education.
