
Fri Aug 29 04:00:27 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the article, followed by a rewritten version formatted as a news article:
**Summary:**
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India, led by Justice (retd.) V. Ramasubramanian, convened a session focused on curbing ragging in higher education institutions. Despite existing laws and regulations, enforcement remains a significant challenge. The NHRC chief called for stronger monitoring mechanisms, sensitivity in handling complaints, and anonymity for complainants. A range of suggestions were put forth, including increased reporting, representation of diverse communities on anti-ragging committees, victim protection, regular audits, establishment of wellness centers, and the use of behavioral “nudge techniques” to prevent ragging. The NHRC also suggested collaboration between various organizations to tackle the issue.
**News Article:**
**NHRC Calls for Stricter Measures to Combat Ragging in Indian Colleges**
**New Delhi – August 29, 2025 -** The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed deep concern over the persistent issue of ragging in Indian higher education institutions, despite the presence of numerous laws and regulations designed to prevent it. During a session held in Hyderabad, NHRC Chairperson Justice (retd.) V. Ramasubramanian highlighted the lack of effective enforcement as a major obstacle.
“Despite existing guidelines and regulations, the practice of ragging continues to plague our campuses,” stated Justice Ramasubramanian. “We need stronger monitoring mechanisms, greater sensitivity in handling complaints, and strict anonymity to protect victims and ensure justice.”
The session, attended by various stakeholders, yielded a number of proposed measures to address the problem. Key suggestions included:
* **Mandatory reporting:** Institutions must immediately report all incidents of ragging to the police and prominently display the UGC’s 24/7 anti-ragging helpline on their websites.
* **Diverse representation:** Anti-ragging committees should include representation from SC/ST/OBC/minority communities.
* **Victim protection:** Ensuring the safety and protection of victims after reporting an incident is paramount.
* **Enhanced surveillance:** Regular audits, surprise checks, CCTV surveillance, and police visits to campuses are recommended.
* **Wellness Centers:** Establish wellness and inclusion centers staffed with trained mental health professionals to provide support to students.
* **District Administration Oversight:** Complaints should not be closed without the approval of the district administration.
* **Accountability:** Institutions should submit annual anti-ragging reports with clear evidence and accountability measures.
* **Behavioral Interventions:** Employing “nudge techniques” to subtly influence student behavior and prevent ragging.
* **Anonymous Complaints:** Encourage anonymous reporting of ragging incidents.
* **Recognition for Ragging-Free Campuses:** Acknowledge and reward campuses that are free from ragging as a “best practice.”
The NHRC also advocated for increased parental involvement in complaint cases and closer collaboration between the NHRC, NALSA, and UGC to effectively combat ragging. The commission hopes that by implementing these measures, a safer and more inclusive environment can be fostered on Indian college campuses.