Shillong, Sept 2: Social activist Cherian Momin has sought the intervention of chairperson of State Commission for Protection of Child Rights on the ragging incident in Williamnagar.
In a letter addressed to the chairperson , Momin said there was a disturbing incident occurred at Jawaharlal Navodaya Vidyalaya Williamnagar.
“A class 10 student was subjected to a horrifying incident of ragging by Class 11 students on September 2.. We, as concerned stakeholders of the institution, vehemently condemn such inhuman activities and seek immediate action against those responsible, as well as the school authorities, warden, and principal”, Momin said.
According to the activist, the act of ragging is not only a violation of the moral and ethical values that the educational institutions should uphold, it is also a criminal offense under the Prevention of Ragging Act, 1997, and its subsequent amendments. The act clearly defines ragging as “any disorderly conduct whether by words spoken or written or by an act which has the effect of teasing, treating or handling with rudeness on a fresher or any other student.” Given the gravity of this incident, we urge you to treat it with the utmost seriousness and take immediate and appropriate actions to ensure justice is served” Momin said.
He wanted the following steps to be taken promptly:
1. Conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident to ascertain the facts and identify the individuals involved in ragging.
2. Ensure that the victim receives the necessary medical and psychological support to cope with the trauma inflicted upon them.
3. Suspend and take strict disciplinary action against the Class 11 students responsible for the ragging incident in accordance with the provisions of the Prevention of Ragging Act, 1997.
4. Investigate the role of the school authorities, warden, and principal in ensuring the safety and well-being of the students and take appropriate action if any negligence is found on their part.
5. Implement strict anti-ragging measures within the school premises, including awareness campaigns, workshops, and a 24/7 helpline for students to report any incidents or concerns.
6. Foster a culture of respect, empathy, and inclusivity among the students to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
