Tue Mar 18 16:05:08 UTC 2025: ## Kerala MLA Seeks Inclusion in PIL Against Ragging

**Kochi, March 18, 2025** – MLA Ramesh Chennithala has petitioned the Kerala High Court to be included in a public interest litigation (PIL) aiming to strengthen the state’s anti-ragging laws. The PIL, filed by the Kerala Legal Services Authority (KeLSA), seeks a reassessment of the Prohibition of Ragging (Kerala) Act, 1998, and the implementation of stricter rules to eradicate ragging in educational institutions.

Chennithala argues that ragging is inextricably linked to drug availability and political patronage. He claims that students involved in ragging often enjoy political protection, leading to inaction from the state administration and even punishment for those who speak out against such activities. He contends that addressing ragging without tackling the underlying issues of drug availability and political influence will be futile.

The High Court previously directed the state government to form a multidisciplinary group to draft comprehensive rules for implementing the anti-ragging act. Chennithala’s petition will be considered on Wednesday.

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