Kerala Drafts Bill to Criminalize Body Shaming, Online Ragging, and Substance Abuse Coercion

Quick Summary

• the Kerala government is drafting the Prohibition of Ragging (Amendment) Bill to address rising incidents of campus violence and ragging.
• the bill broadens the definition of ragging to include body shaming, forcing students to use prohibited substances, and acts committed via the internet or digital platforms.
• Ragging will be considered a cognizable offense in all educational institutions across Kerala, including universities, schools, coaching centers, and even public transportation accessed by students for educational purposes.
• Premises such as academic buildings, residential areas, canteens (inside/outside campuses), bus stands, and playgrounds are included in the scope of institutions covered under this legislation.
• Criminal activities linked to ragging-such as abetment to ragging, bodily harm, sexual harassment during ragging incidents-will attract severe legal penalties under this law.
• This legislative move follows protests over J. S. Sidharthan’s death at a veterinary college in Wayanad earlier this year after alleged brutal ragging incidents.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The Kerala Prohibition of Ragging (Amendment) Bill reflects an attempt by policymakers to confront the recurring issue of campus violence comprehensively. By expanding it’s jurisdiction over digital activities and public spaces used by students for education-related purposes-a first-of-its-kind approach-it underscores how pervasive modern-day bullying tactics have become. Its designation as a cognizable offense may deter perpetrators but could also necessitate robust implementation mechanisms across educational institutions.

Considering high-profile cases like J.S. Sidharthan’s tragic demise fueling public unrest earlier this year, ensuring accountability is vital for restoring trust among families sending their children into educational environments. Though, rigorous enforcement coupled with preventive measures like awareness campaigns will likely be key if critically important change within Kerala’s campuses is expected.

Read More: The Hindu – Speaker calls for review of anti-ragging law