Ragging Complaints Surge in Indian Higher Education: What You Need to Know

Rising Incidents of Ragging in Educational Institutions

New Delhi: This year, Odisha has reported 36 incidents of ragging in its higher educational institutions (HEIs), as disclosed in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Uttar Pradesh leads the statistics with 135 complaints, followed by West Bengal with 75 cases. According to data shared by Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar, Madhya Pradesh (63), Maharashtra (53), and Bihar (50) follow closely behind in terms of reported ragging incidents. Additionally, Rajasthan has recorded 44 complaints, Karnataka 41, and Delhi 27, as mentioned in response to a query from Sayani Ghosh.

The Minister noted that in 2025, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued Show Cause Notices to 107 HEIs, including 18 medical colleges, for failing to comply with the Anti-Ragging Regulations established in 2009. These notices pointed out issues such as the lack of anti-ragging commitments from students and their guardians, as well as the failure to submit compliance reports despite multiple reminders. Majumdar emphasized that the regulatory approach has been both corrective and preventive, aiming to ensure that institutions address these lapses and adhere to anti-ragging protocols, thereby protecting student welfare and campus safety.

To combat ragging, the UGC implemented a third amendment to the existing regulations in 2016, which expanded the definition of ragging. Increased awareness among students indicates the effectiveness of the regulatory framework in promoting reporting and resolution of such incidents. The Minister also mentioned that the UGC issues advisories to HEIs biannually to enhance awareness, reporting, and grievance redressal systems aimed at preventing ragging.