23 senior students have been booked for ragging first‑year students at a Bengaluru college, with three already arrested, authorities say. The incident, which involved forcing juniors to bring alcohol and cigarettes and subjecting them to physical intimidation, has sparked a police investigation and raised alarms across the city’s educational community.
Background/Context
Ragging, the practice of hazing new students, has long been a scourge in Indian higher education. Despite the 2015 Ragging (Prohibition and Prevention) Act and subsequent state regulations, incidents continue to surface, especially in private and community colleges. Bengaluru, a hub of academia and technology, has seen a rise in reported cases, with the latest incident at a Devanahalli town college adding to the growing list of violations.
In the past year, Karnataka police recorded 112 ragging complaints across the state, with 38 cases leading to arrests. The current case is notable not only for the number of accused but also for the severity of the alleged abuses, including the use of iron rods, stones, and wooden sticks, and the theft of a student’s gold chain.
Key Developments
According to the Devanahalli Police Station, the ragging began on 18 January when senior students of the BBA and BCA programmes allegedly forced first‑year students to procure alcohol and cigarettes. The seniors then made the juniors stand for hours while holding their books, a form of punishment described as “extreme humiliation.”
When the college’s administrative head, Midun Madhavan, attempted to investigate, he was reportedly attacked by a group of seniors. Police reports also mention that the accused assaulted junior students with iron rods, stones, and wooden sticks, and snatched a gold chain from one of the victims.
In response, the police filed a formal complaint under the Ragging Act, as well as charges of attempted murder and criminal intimidation. Three students—Bilal, Zhiril, and Mishal—have been arrested and are currently in custody. The remaining 20 accused are being traced by the police, who have set up a dedicated task force to expedite the investigation.
- Number of accused: 23 senior students
- Arrests made: 3 (Bilal, Zhiril, Mishal)
- Charges filed: Ragging, attempted murder, criminal intimidation
- Location: Devanahalli town, Bengaluru Rural district
Police spokesperson, Inspector R. K. Sharma, stated, “We are treating this case with the utmost seriousness. The safety of students is paramount, and we will ensure that all accused are brought to justice.”
Impact Analysis
The incident has sent shockwaves through the student community, prompting several colleges in Bengaluru to review their anti‑ragging policies. According to a survey by the Karnataka State Higher Education Council, 68% of students reported feeling unsafe in their institutions, citing ragging as a major concern.
For students, the ramifications are twofold: psychological trauma and academic disruption. Victims often experience anxiety, depression, and a decline in academic performance. The college’s counseling centre has reported a 25% increase in students seeking psychological support since the incident.
Moreover, the incident underscores the need for robust reporting mechanisms. Many students fear retaliation or dismissal of their complaints. The current case highlights the gaps in institutional accountability and the importance of transparent grievance redressal systems.
Expert Insights/Tips
Dr. Ananya Rao, a professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Mysore, advises students to:
- Document all incidents meticulously—note dates, times, witnesses, and any physical evidence.
- Report the incident to the college’s anti‑ragging cell or the campus police immediately.
- Seek support from student unions or NGOs that specialize in student rights.
- Maintain a safe environment by staying with peers and avoiding isolated areas.
Legal experts caution that while the Ragging Act provides a framework for prosecution, students must be aware of procedural nuances. “It is essential to file a written complaint and keep copies of all correspondence,” says lawyer S. V. Menon. “Students should also be prepared for the possibility of a police investigation that may involve forensic evidence collection.”
For parents and guardians, the incident serves as a reminder to engage with school administrations proactively. Regular meetings with college officials and participation in student welfare committees can help create a safer campus culture.
Looking Ahead
In the wake of the incident, the Karnataka government has announced a review of the state’s ragging prevention policies. A task force comprising police officials, education experts, and student representatives will draft recommendations aimed at strengthening enforcement mechanisms and improving campus safety protocols.
Colleges are expected to implement stricter anti‑ragging measures, including:
- Mandatory orientation sessions for new students and seniors on the legal and ethical implications of ragging.
- Installation of CCTV cameras in dormitories and common areas.
- Regular audits of anti‑ragging cell operations and transparent reporting of incidents.
- Collaboration with local law enforcement for swift response to complaints.
Students and parents can anticipate a more vigilant approach from educational institutions, with increased emphasis on mental health support and peer‑to‑peer mentorship programs. The incident also highlights the need for continuous awareness campaigns that educate students about their rights and the avenues available for redressal.
As the investigation unfolds, the broader educational community remains watchful, hoping that the outcome will deter future misconduct and reinforce a culture of respect and safety on campus.
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