Anti-ragging steps on varsities’ radar

OU launches campaign, sets up panel

We have set up anti-ragging committees. Its members will conduct raids and inspections at hostels to prevent ragging cases. We have also put up a helpline number and installed cameras in the campus

— VENUGOPAL REDDY, V-C of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University

Universities across Telangana want to curb ragging which are rampant in educational institutions. Less surprisingly, some ragging cases have lead to the death of students.

Osmania University recently launched its anti-ragging campaign and placed posters with a helpline number in hostels, departments and other areas. An official from Osmania University said, “Fresh students are coming to us and asking about the instructions if they come across ragging incidents. This is a good sign. Students are willing to speak up about it and the fear factor has ebbed.”

The University Grant Commission (UGC) has released a study on ragging cases in selected institutions to keep a tab on it. The study was conducted by a special committee, set up by the High Court.

The study noted that 80 cases of ragging were reported and claimed the life of a student in the undivided Andhra Pradesh state in 2015.

The UGC study pointed out that caste, religion, drug abuses and consumption of alcohol are some of the reasons behind it.

Venugopal Reddy, vicechancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU) which had ragging cases in the previous academic year, said, “We have set up anti-ragging committees. Its members will conduct raids and inspections at hostels to prevent ragging cases. We have also put up a helpline number and installed cameras in the campus.”