Gujarat High Court disposes of ragging PIL following government resolution

The GR also requires that medical colleges send precise information about ragging to the National Medical Commission (NMC) in New Delhi in the form specified by the NMC every year.

Introduction:

A division bench of the Gujarat High Court recently concluded a suo motu public interest litigation concerning ragging incidents in colleges. 

The matter was disposed of after the Gujarat government informed the court about the issuance of a government resolution (GR) mandating compliance with existing rules and regulations.

Government Resolution Mandate:

The Gujarat government issued a government resolution on March 21, stipulating that all government medical colleges, GMERS colleges, medical colleges under municipal corporations, and self-financed medical colleges must ensure the effective implementation of the National Medical Commission (Prevention and Prohibition of Ragging in Medical Colleges and Institutions) Regulations, 2021.

Key Instructions for College Deans:

The GR outlined several instructions for the deans of medical colleges to ensure the prevention of ragging. These measures include:

1. Obtaining an anti-crime undertaking from students and their parents during admission.
2. Installation of complaint boxes at multiple locations within college premises, to be regularly addressed by the dean.
3. Establishment of an anti-ragging helpline number, to be prominently published on the college website and campus.
4. Displaying provisions of punishment for ragging on notice boards.
5. Conducting regular campaigns to educate senior students about ragging and its consequences.

Reporting Requirements:

Medical colleges are also mandated to submit detailed information regarding ragging incidents to the National Medical Commission (NMC) in New Delhi, as per the prescribed format, on an annual basis.

Conclusion:

With the issuance of the government resolution and the commitment to implement anti-crime measures, the Gujarat High Court disposed of the PIL. 

The proactive steps outlined in the GR aim to create a safer and more conducive environment for students in medical colleges, fostering a culture of respect and accountability.