Creating a secure and supportive learning environment is a fundamental responsibility of any educational institution. At Tezpur Law College, this responsibility is taken seriously, and one of the key pillars of this commitment is the Anti-Ragging Cell. Established by the UGC (University Grants Commission) regulations, the Anti-Ragging Cell at Tezpur Law College serves to prevent and address incidents of ragging, ensuring that students can pursue their education without fear or intimidation.
Table of Contents
Understanding Ragging
Ragging refers to any act that causes mental or physical harassment, embarrassment, or abuse of a student, typically by seniors. While it is often masked as a form of “introduction” or “interaction,” ragging can lead to serious psychological trauma and sometimes even physical harm.
Recognizing its damaging effects, the Supreme Court of India and the UGC have mandated strict regulations for all higher education institutions, requiring the establishment of an Anti-Ragging Cell.
Tezpur Law College’s Stand Against Ragging
Tezpur Law College has always maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards ragging. The college administration actively promotes awareness, transparency, and accountability among staff and students.
Key Objectives of the Anti-Ragging Cell:
- To eliminate ragging in all its forms.
- To ensure a healthy and friendly atmosphere among students.
- To encourage peer support and respectful behavior.
- To implement preventive and disciplinary actions in ragging cases.
- To offer counseling and legal guidance to victims, if needed.
Composition of the Anti
The Anti-Ragging Cell at Tezpur Law College consists of faculty members, administrative staff, student representatives, and external members (including legal and medical experts) to ensure unbiased investigation and fair resolution.
Composition of Anti-Ragging Cell – Tezpur Law College
| Designation | Name | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chairperson | Principal | Head of Anti-Ragging Cell |
| Coordinator | Senior Faculty Member | Monitors anti-ragging measures |
| Faculty Representatives | 2 Members | Oversight and awareness duties |
| Administrative Member | Office Superintendent | Records and documentation |
| Student Representatives | 2 Senior Students | Report feedback from peers |
| Legal Advisor (External) | Appointed Advocate | Legal assistance |
| Medical Officer | Visiting Doctor | Health & psychological support |
Preventive Measures and Awareness Programs
To prevent ragging even before it starts, Tezpur Law College has adopted a proactive approach. Multiple awareness programs, workshops, and orientation sessions are held regularly to educate students and staff about the consequences of ragging and the support systems available.
Preventive Activities Include:
- Induction programs for first-year students with guidelines on rights and responsibilities.
- Pledge signing by all students and parents during admission, affirming commitment against ragging.
- Poster campaigns across the campus with anti-ragging slogans and helpline numbers.
- Anonymous complaint boxes and digital reporting systems for victims or witnesses.
- CCTV surveillance in strategic areas for monitoring and early intervention.
Disciplinary Action in Ragging Cases
Any student found guilty of participating in ragging activities is dealt with strictly as per the UGC regulations and the guidelines laid out by the Supreme Court. The Anti-Ragging Cell investigates each complaint thoroughly and ensures confidentiality for the complainant.
Possible Disciplinary Actions for Ragging
| Nature of Offense | Disciplinary Measures |
|---|---|
| Mild verbal harassment | Written warning, counselling |
| Repeated offenses | Suspension from classes, social service duties |
| Physical assault | Suspension for one semester or more |
| Serious criminal offense | Expulsion and FIR with local police authorities |
In serious cases, the college has the authority to recommend legal proceedings and involve law enforcement to protect the rights and safety of students.
Student Support and Counseling
Victims of ragging often go through emotional stress and trauma. Recognizing this, Tezpur Law College offers professional counseling services, peer mentoring programs, and psychological first-aid support for affected students. These services are available upon request and are treated with utmost confidentiality.
The college also encourages students to come forward with any concerns, either related to themselves or others, without fear of retaliation.
Online Reporting Mechanism
Tezpur Law College has integrated technology into its anti-ragging infrastructure. Students can report incidents of ragging via:
- Official college website
- Email to the Anti-Ragging Cell
- Phone hotline available during college hours
- UGC Anti-Ragging Helpline: 1800-180-5522
All complaints are recorded and reviewed promptly. The reporting system is designed to protect the identity of the complainant unless they choose to disclose it.
Legal Framework and UGC Compliance
Tezpur Law College follows the regulations laid out by:
- The UGC Regulation on Curbing the Menace of Ragging in Higher Educational Institutions, 2009
- The Indian Penal Code (Sections 294, 323, 506, etc.)
- Supreme Court directives on anti-ragging measures
These frameworks empower institutions like Tezpur Law College to take stringent action against ragging while also safeguarding student rights.
Success of the Anti-Ragging Cell
Over the years, the efforts of the Anti-Ragging Cell have significantly contributed to maintaining a ragging-free campus. Regular feedback from students, parents, and faculty indicates that the atmosphere in the college is welcoming, respectful, and safe.
Feedback Highlights (Last Academic Year)
| Category | Rating (Out of 5) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Overall campus safety | 4.8 | Most students feel safe and secure |
| Awareness among students | 4.7 | Orientation sessions are effective |
| Reporting system | 4.6 | Easy to use and responsive |
| Counselor availability | 4.5 | Helpful during transition period |
| Disciplinary transparency | 4.7 | Fair investigation and resolution |
Quick Answers
Q1. Is ragging completely banned at Tezpur Law College?
Yes, Tezpur Law College follows a strict zero-tolerance policy towards ragging. Any incident is treated with seriousness and investigated promptly.
Q2. How can I report a ragging incident anonymously?
You can use the anonymous complaint box on campus or the digital complaint form on the college website without revealing your identity.
Final Words
The Anti-Ragging Cell at Tezpur Law College stands as a symbol of the institution’s unwavering commitment to student welfare. Through preventive education, reliable policies, and quick action, the college fosters a safe and inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can learn and grow without fear.
By promoting awareness, encouraging dialogue, and offering steadfast support, Tezpur Law College continues to set a powerful example in the fight against ragging. For students entering this prestigious institution, safety, respect, and community are not just ideals; they are daily realities.
