In a bold move, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially declared that harassment of juniors via informal WhatsApp groups will now be treated as ragging. The directive applies to all higher education institutions. And aims to crack down on the growing trend of digital bullying among students.
Each year, the UGC receives several complaints from freshers. Alleging mental and emotional harassment through private group chats created by seniors. These interactions, often laced with threats, humiliation, or commands, have gone unchecked until now.
In its latest advisory, the UGC made it clear that student safety either online or offline is non-negotiable. Any act that causes physical or mental distress, including those carried out through messaging apps, will now fall under anti-ragging regulations.
The advisory also warned institutions that failure to act. Against such incidents may lead to severe consequences, including the withholding of UGC grants.
The UGC specifically mentioned disturbing patterns of abuse. These include seniors threatening social boycotts, forcing juniors to stay up late, cut their hair, or endure verbal humiliation all of which leave a lasting psychological impact.
Such practices, even when conducted digitally, have now been officially recognized as serious violations of student rights and will invite disciplinary action.
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Colleges and universities have been instructed to monitor digital platforms, conduct awareness drives, and ensure swift reporting mechanisms are in place. They must treat cyber harassment with the same urgency as physical ragging on campus.
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