Himani Manhas, III, MBBS, Akash Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru
Ragging is an act of violence which causes, or is likely to cause, insult, intimidation, or injury to students. This can lead to adverse effects such as depression, anxiety, and sometimes, even suicide. Therefore, extra measures should be taken to ensure students’ safety, in and around campuses. Conducting of cultural festivals and other extracurricular activities involving both, juniors and seniors, can alleviate such situations.
Suhasini, II, PGDM, TA Pai Management Institute (TAPMI), Manipal
The culture of ragging continues to prevail in our country despite relentless measures against it. While law and order is in place, institutes should take initiatives to provide a sense of security to students. Colleges should have counselling cells that can help students in times of crisis. Most tormentors consider ragging to be casual entertainment. This can be reduced by conducting regular interactive sessions on the impacts of ragging.
Sagar Jain Amol, II, MA (J&MC) course, Amity University, Noida
The fear of ragging, among freshers, can be reduced if healthy practices are adopted by universities. Anti-ragging programmes can be held to spread awareness about the ill-effects of ragging. Anti-ragging students committee can help in making sure it is a ragging- free campus. The counselling services should be autonomous so that confidentiality of students can be maintained and they can seek help without any hesitation.
Ghanashyam Katti, Computer Science Engineering, The National Institute of Engineering College, Mysuru
Transitioning from school to college is always enthralling. However, new environment and experiences come with their own lessons. To avoid ragging, colleges should ensure that their students are aware of the general dos and don’t s, especially for campuses located in the outskirts of the city. Colleges should also try to set up a working ‘campus safety office’. Such initiatives will instil hope not just for students, but also for parents.
