By TC News Desk
Agartala, 29th November 2024: The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has directed the Tripura Medical College (TMC) and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Memorial (BRAM) Teaching Hospital to submit a comprehensive report on the progress of the ongoing investigation into a recent ragging incident within three weeks.
In its directive, the Commission noted that the Principal of TMC and BRAM Teaching Hospital had earlier submitted a report indicating that an FIR was lodged on September 25 at Amtali Police Station. The FIR names 18 students accused of ragging freshmen.
A report from the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP), based on input from the Superintendent of Police (SP) for West Tripura, confirmed that a case has been registered and is under investigation. However, it highlighted that no arrests have been made so far. The offences fall under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Ragging Act, which classify ragging as a serious, non-bailable crime punishable by up to four years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
The Commission emphasized the gravity of the offence, describing ragging as a severe human rights violation that disrupts the educational environment. It called for the investigation to proceed swiftly and effectively to prevent such incidents in the future.
“The accused individuals’ arrest status has not been disclosed in the report. Investigators must act decisively to address this menace and ensure the offenders face appropriate legal consequences,” the Commission stated.
The THRC has instructed the SP of West Tripura to oversee the investigation closely and ensure a prompt submission of the final report. It stressed the importance of resolving the case quickly to safeguard the educational environment and the students’ futures.
The Commission also criticized the college administration for its lack of vigilance, stating, “The report suggests that such activities are not new and have likely persisted for some time. The administration must take immediate and effective measures to curb such behavior.”
The THRC recommended several measures to address the issue, “Accused students and their guardians should immediately sign bonds with strict conditions to discourage further misconduct. The accused students should undergo counseling to address their behavior. Notices warning about the severe consequences of ragging should be prominently displayed in hostels and college premises. Additionally, the Commission requested an update on whether the accused students are attending classes and what precautions have been implemented to prevent further incidents”.
The THRC underscored the college’s responsibility to maintain vigilance and ensure no leniency is shown to the accused during the ongoing academic session. It also asked for details of any additional actions taken since the submission of the initial report.
The Commission’s directive seeks to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students and holds both the college and law enforcement accountable for addressing the issue with urgency.
