Anti-ragging cells formed in schools and colleges in Kozhikode district are now inactive in many institutions because of the absence of a strong district-level monitoring system. Police officers who were earlier part of local anti-ragging committees say most students have lost trust in such cells as their institutions had failed to take strict action against ragging incidents.
“Many junior students are seemingly ignorant of their rights to challenge such incidents. They rarely use options like email or telephone helplines outside the campus to fight the issue. In effect, the anti-ragging cells continue to be the first respondents, which are yet to meet the expectations,” says a Sub Inspector who was earlier part of an anti-ragging committee as ex-officio member in Kunnamangalam. The officer adds that “mutual settlements” are being used to hush up even grave incidents.
Parents who were earlier part of anti-ragging committees also say that many school and college authorities are not interested in convening review meetings to discuss incidents of ragging or related student clashes. According to them, a simple scrutiny of the records related to anti-ragging cells by a district-level committee would bring to light the fact.
“Ex-officio members have bigger roles in anti-ragging committees, but many a time they emerge as mediators for settlements. There should be a proper review of the legal actions taken in recent cases,” says a former local body member from Mukkom who was part of an anti-ragging cell. He says the structure of the existing anti-ragging committees should be changed to make them more powerful.
Some of the student organisation members say a survey should be carried out in schools and colleges to audit the existing situation and find practical solutions. They also point out that the formation of an exclusive district-level helpline will encourage students to fearlessly submit their complaints.
“Other than just dealing with complaints, the cells should be equipped in such a way to prevent ragging incidents in schools and colleges. No seniors will resort to ragging if they are properly aware of the consequences,” says a second-year undergraduate student from Government Arts and Science College, Meenchanda. She adds that student organisations should do more to create awareness about the issue.
However, senior police officers associated with anti-ragging committees in the district claim the suspension of over 15 students in some of the recent incidents of ragging is endorsing the effectiveness of the system in at least a few institutions. They also add that no third parties are required if the school and college authorities are able to address the issues in the system independently.
Published – July 14, 2025 07:33 pm IST
