Q. Analysing the persistent issue of ragging in Indian educational institutions, critically examine the challenges in eradicating this practice. Discuss the measures taken by educational institutions and the government to prevent and address ragging incidents. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

Answer:

Approach:

  • Introduction: Definition and evolution of ragging in Indian educational institutions.
  • Body:  
    • Discuss the transformation of ragging from harmless pranks to serious instances of abuse.
    • Enumerate major challenges like cultural acceptance, fear of speaking out, oversight gaps, and inconsistent penalties.
    • Detail out mechanisms like orientation programs, committees, and penalties.
    • Highlight legal measures, awareness campaigns, monitoring mechanisms, and helpline provisions.
    • Mention mandatory affidavits and centralized databases.
    • Provide relevant examples.
  • Conclusion: Stress the importance of a collective approach for a holistic solution.

Introduction:

Ragging, an archaic initiation rite prevalent in many educational institutions, has increasingly come under scrutiny in India. Initially considered a harmless tradition to break the ice between seniors and freshmen, it has, in many instances, transformed into a form of abuse and humiliation.

Body:

Nature of Ragging:

  • Originally intended as light-hearted banter, the nature of ragging has evolved into severe mental, emotional, and sometimes physical torture.
  • For example, numerous reports indicate instances where freshers have been subjected to physical harm, leading to grave injuries or even fatalities.

Challenges in Eradicating Ragging:

  • Cultural Acceptance: Many seniors believe they are passing down a tradition, having experienced ragging themselves.
  • Fear and Silence: Freshers fear reporting incidents due to concerns about retaliation or being ostracized.
  • Inadequate Oversight: Especially in large campuses and hostels, it’s challenging for authorities to monitor all interactions.
  • Inconsistent Penalties: While laws exist, their application varies, often influenced by the status or influence of the perpetrators.

Measures Taken by Educational Institutions:

  • Orientation Programs: Informing newcomers about their rights and providing avenues for complaints.
  • Anti-Ragging Committees: Comprising faculty and senior students to oversee and prevent ragging activities.
  • Strict Penalties: Including suspension or expulsion for those found guilty.
  • For example, many premier institutions, like the IITs and IIMs, have stringent anti-ragging policies in place, leading to almost negligible incidents in recent years.

Government Initiatives:

  • Legal Measures: 
    • The Supreme Court of India, in 2009, defined ragging as a criminal offense. 
    • States like Kerala and Tamil Nadu have also passed laws specifically targeting ragging.
  • Awareness Programs: 
    • The government has initiated campaigns in collaboration with NGOs to spread awareness against ragging.
  • Central Database: 
    • The University Grants Commission (UGC) maintains a central database of ragging complaints to monitor and address incidents.
  • National Anti-Ragging Helpline: 
    • Launched by the Indian government, it provides a platform for victims or witnesses to report incidents, ensuring anonymity.
  • Mandatory Anti-Ragging Affidavits: 
    • Both students and their parents are required to submit signed affidavits at the time of admission, declaring they understand the consequences of ragging.

Conclusion: 

While significant progress has been made in tackling the menace of ragging in Indian educational institutions, the persistence of isolated incidents underscores the need for continuous vigilance. A multi-pronged approach, involving the government, educational institutions, students, and society at large, is essential to eradicate this deep-rooted problem entirely. As India aspires to be a global educational hub, ensuring the safety and dignity of every student becomes paramount.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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