Does Ragging Occur at Amrita University?

Ragging, a term that signifies the practice of harassing or bullying newcomers by seniors in educational institutes, has often been a concerning issue in various universities across India. Amrita University, like many others, has faced its share of this problem. However, the institution has implemented strict anti-ragging policies to prevent and address such incidents. This article delves into the current state of ragging in Amrita University and the steps the university takes to maintain a safe and supportive environment for its students.

Understanding Ragging in Amrita University

Ragging is a serious concern in Amrita University, particularly in its Coimbatore campus. The practice of ragging is not uniform; it often operates on a linguistic basis. For instance, Telugu-speaking seniors may target only Telugu-speaking newcomers, while Malayali seniors might focus on their fellow Malayalis. Tamil students, on the other hand, are often spared from this bullying, with their seniors showing little interest in their names or welfare. This linguistic segregation can make the situation more complex and challenging to address without proper understanding and action.

Current Anti-Ragging Policies

The university has taken significant steps to address and prevent ragging. It has implemented stringent anti-ragging policies and has established mechanisms for reporting and addressing any incidents. According to a reliable source within the institution, the management is very strict about ragging, which means students have very little to worry about regarding this issue. This stringent approach by the university management fosters a safer and more conducive learning environment for all students.

Realistic Perspectives on Ragging

Around the Gokulashtami program, the ragging process begins, where seniors initiate the harassment of juniors. As a practice, Telugu seniors might make Telugu juniors document the names of all Telugu juniors, and importantly, this is often carried out by one junior to avoid direct confrontation. These seniors then call all juniors to gather at a designated location before 8:00 PM, where they force the juniors to comply with their demands. This process can be quick and brutal, with seniors often changing locations to avoid confrontation with security personnel.

Refusal to participate in ragging can lead to severe consequences, including isolation from future programs. Those who complain might face severe repercussions, adding to the risk and psychological pressure on students. First-year students are often prohibited from accessing the canteen, and constant checks are conducted in areas around the ground and hanger places, as well as in front of the main canteen, indicating the university’s vigilance.

Beard and Religious Considerations

Students, especially those growing beards for religious purposes or for mourning, often face additional pressure. Seniors may force such students to shave their beards, despite their reasons or justifications. This behavior highlights the psychological toll ragging can take on students, disrupting their mental and emotional well-being.

Conclusion

While ragging remains a problem at Amrita University, particularly in its Coimbatore campus, the institution’s commitment to anti-ragging policies is commendable. By taking complaints seriously and implementing stringent measures, the university is working towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for all students. If you are concerned about the current situation or recent incidents, it is best to refer to the university’s official website or contact their administration directly to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

For more detailed information, contact the university administration or visit the official Amrita University website. Remember, ragging is not only wrong but can also have long-term negative impacts on the mental and emotional well-being of students.