Mon Jun 30 15:57:33 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text, written from an Indian perspective as if published by The Hindu:

**Kerala High Court Urges Stricter Anti-Ragging Laws Following Student Death**

**KOCHI, June 30, 2025:** The Kerala High Court has called on the state government to enact a more stringent law against ragging in educational institutions, citing the inadequacy of existing University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations. The court’s statement comes in the wake of a petition related to the death of Sidharthan J.S., a second-year student at the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode. Sidharthan was found dead in February 2024, allegedly after being subjected to brutal ragging by fellow students.

The university’s own anti-ragging squad confirmed Sidharthan suffered severe physical abuse and a public trial. The court was hearing petitions from two college staff members, an assistant warden and the Dean, who were suspended following Sidharthan’s death due to administrative lapses. The Court directed the University to take departmental action against the petitioners to be finalized within 3 months.

While acknowledging the existing anti-ragging regulations, the High Court emphasized that they are insufficient to completely eradicate the practice and prevent tragic outcomes. The court stressed the need for a state law that imposes severe punishments on perpetrators of ragging, ensuring that offenders are held accountable for their actions. The court further directed the university to take immediate action against the students found responsible for Sidharthan’s death. The judgment underscores the persistent problem of ragging within Indian educational institutions and the urgent need for more effective deterrents.

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