Shillong, Aug 18: The Shillong College Anti-Ragging Cell conducted an awareness programme today as part of the observation of the National Anti-Ragging Week.
Held under the theme, “Say No to Ragging”, the programme aimed at sensitising the student community of the college on the Anti Ragging Act, to encourage acceptance and harmony and create a healthy educational environment in the institution.
Principal of the college Dr S. Khongwir stressed on the adverse effects of ragging on the holistic development and progress of students. Commenting on the programme he stated that such programmes as this are organised not only for awareness purposes but are also aimed at facilitating character building and promoting a peaceful and harmonious coexistence among students in the college.
He stated that no reports of ragging were reported in Shillong College till date and lauded the Anti-Ragging Cell for taking proactive steps and measures in ensuring a ragging-free environment.
The programme was conducted session wise for all newly joined first semester students as well as the hostellers led by Assistant Professor Dr. D. Mawlong as the resource person.
Mawlong highlighted the acts that constitute or can be regarded as a form of ragging. While stating that in earlier decades ragging was a western concept, she pointed out that ragging is no longer alien in the Indian subcontinent especially in other parts of mainland India. She also related to the history pointing out how the cases of ragging drew the attention of the judiciary and the government that subsequently led to the passing of the Anti- Ragging Act in India. She also emphasized that as part of the Prohibition of Ragging in educational institutions the central government through the University Grants Commission as well as the state government has made it mandatory for students of higher educational institutions to fill the online undertaking. Her comprehensive knowledge and expert deliberation on the subject greatly benefitted the attentive audience.
In the interactive session, students posed questions on the laws that are in place to curb ragging in educational institutions.
Another awareness programme on Anti-Ragging will be organised by the college for the Post graduate students in September.
