New measures to include surprise checks at places of student accommodation
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued additional anti-ragging guidelines for higher education institutions including the introduction of quick response systems, CCTV cameras, alarm bells and regular counselling.
According to the circular issued, the anti-ragging measures should include identification of trouble triggers and surprise checks at hostels, student accommodation, canteens, recreational rooms, toilets, and bus stops. It has also been made compulsory for every student and parent to submit an online undertaking every academic year.
“The institutions are also asked to take legal action in cases where the culprits are identified through CCTV footage,” the circular states.
According to data available with the national anti-ragging helpline (18001805522), in 2014, 28 complaints were registered from Tamil Nadu with the helpline and since June 2009 there have been 147 calls made to the helpline from the State. Six other States in the country have recorded the highest number of complaints to the helpline, including Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
R. Thandavan, vice-chancellor, Madras University, said there is a high level of awareness on ragging in the State, and the varsity has asked colleges to step up vigilance. “CCTV cameras will be installed in the Guindy and the Taramani campuses. The main campus already has 12 cameras and with increased vigilance,” he said.
Some college principals, however, are sceptical of these measures. “Since there is security on campus, most of the ragging takes place outside, where very little can be done,” a principal from a government-aided college said.
Educationist Sultan Ahmed Ismail said the institution played a vital role in curbing ragging. “In some colleges they keep a strict watch for the first few months after college starts, and this is effective in keeping a check on incidents,” he said.
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