UGC Directs Higher Educational Institutions to Ensure Strict Compliance with Anti-Ragging Rules

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a notice directing all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to strictly implement the UGC Regulations on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009. It has also advised HEIs to strictly comply with the UGC Anti-Ragging Regulations and adopt preventive measures.

Through an official notice, the commission informed of the directive issued to Vice-Chancellors, Directors, and Principals of higher educational institutions across the country.

According to the official notice, all the universities and colleges have been directed by the commission to adopt effective measures to prevent, prohibit and eliminate ragging in all forms.

UGC Lists Anti-Ragging Measures for HEIs

The UGC has urged the HEIs to constitute anti-ragging bodies and ensure their effective functioning as prescribed under the regulations. Along with this, they have also been directed to prominently display the 24×7 toll-free anti-ragging helpline number, 1800-180-5522, anti-ragging posters and publicity material at prominent locations across the campus.

Institutions must also ensure that students and their parents submit anti-ragging undertakings through the designated anti-ragging portal at antiragging.in.

The commission further advised institutions to conduct various programmes, which include awareness, counselling, orientation and sensitisation programmes with the aim to educate students about the consequences and prevention of ragging.

The notice calls for increased vigilance in hostels and other vulnerable areas where ragging may take place.

Prompt Action Against Ragging Cases

The UGC has directed institutions to ensure prompt redressal of complaints and protection of complainants. Cases of ragging must be reported in a timely manner, while institutions have been asked to immediately register FIRs and initiate disciplinary action wherever a prima facie case of ragging is established. The commission has called on all higher educational institutions to give the highest priority to anti-ragging measures and maintain zero tolerance towards ragging.

HEIs have also been advised to ensure compliance with the regulations and submit themselves to scrutiny wherever required. For more information, students, parents and institutions to refer to the UGC's public notice that is available on its official website.