The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued a directive urging all medical colleges and institutions to enforce stringent anti-ragging measures outlined in the Prevention and Prohibition of Ragging in Medical Colleges and Institutions Regulations, 2021. This move comes in the wake of a tragic incident at GMERS Medical College and Hospital, Dharpur, where an 18-year-old first-year MBBS student lost their life.
Tragic Incident Highlights the Need for Stronger Measures
The death of the student at GMERS Medical College has sparked widespread attention, with reports reaching the UGC Anti-Ragging Helpline and drawing significant media coverage. The incident underscores the pressing need for effective mechanisms to prevent such occurrences in educational institutions.
The NMC has noted that ragging complaints continue to pour in from Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) medical colleges across the country. These complaints often involve serious allegations of mental harassment and, in extreme cases, suicide. The NMC’s Anti-Ragging Cell, along with the UGC Anti-Ragging Helpline, regularly receives reports of disorderly conduct, teasing, coercion, and other undisciplined activities.
NMC’s Notification on Anti-Ragging Mechanisms
The NMC has called upon medical colleges to strictly adhere to the anti-ragging mechanisms detailed in the Regulations 2021. The notification emphasizes the need to:
- Constitute Anti-Ragging Squads: Colleges must form and activate dedicated squads tasked with monitoring and identifying ragging activities on campus.
- Promote Awareness: Faculty, staff, and students should be well-informed about anti-ragging policies through workshops, orientations, and official communication.
- Submit Annual Reports: Institutions are required to provide timely submissions of annual Anti-Ragging Reports, detailing the steps taken to prevent ragging.
- Ensure a Safe Environment: A secure and harassment-free learning environment must be maintained, allowing students to thrive without fear.
Strict Enforcement for Non-Compliance
The NMC has issued a stern warning to institutions failing to comply with the outlined measures. Such non-compliance will be addressed strictly under the provisions of the Prevention and Prohibition of Ragging in Medical Colleges and Institutions Regulations, 2021.
In its official statement, the NMC reiterated its commitment to working closely with medical institutions to ensure the effectiveness of anti-ragging policies. Regular video conferences are conducted to address concerns and monitor progress.
Moving Toward a Harassment-Free Campus Environment
The NMC’s directive is a crucial step in combating the menace of ragging and fostering a supportive academic atmosphere. By implementing these measures, medical colleges can ensure that students feel safe and supported, ultimately contributing to their academic and personal growth.
The commission’s active engagement with institutions highlights the collective responsibility of educational establishments to uphold the principles of dignity and respect for all students.
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