Legal Awareness on Anti-Ragging at APG Shimla University: Civil Judge Vijaylakshmi as Chief Guest
APG Shimla University marked Anti-Ragging Day with a significant awareness program organized by the School of Legal Studies and Research on Wednesday. The event, led by Head of Department Dr. Bhavana Verma and faculty members, aimed to raise awareness about the perils of ragging and substance abuse. Students from various departments participated in speech competitions, writing contests, short plays, and documentaries, all conveying messages against these social evils.
As per UGC guidelines, educational institutions across the country are observing Anti-Raggiek from August 12-17. Senior Civil Judge cum Chief Judicial Magistrate Vijay Lakshmi from the State Legal Services Authority, Shimla, graced the occasion as the keynote speaker and chief guest. She provided valuable legal insights into the consequences of ragging and substance abuse, urging students to stay clear of these destructive behaviors.
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajender Singh Chauhan emphasized the university's strictness against ragging. Speaking at the university's auditorium, he highlighted that APG Shimla University maintains a disciplined approach to ensure a safe and peaceful campus environment. The Anti-Ragging Committee, along with counseling efforts by students, society, families, and educators, plays a crucial role in fostering respect and equality among all students, regardless of their seniority.
In her address, Civil Judge Vijaylakshmi stressed the importance of the stringent laws enacted to prevent the threat of ragging in higher education institutions. She highlighted that ragging violates individual rights and disrupts the academic atmosphere. She also emphasized that it is a collective social, familial, educational, and administrative responsibility to eliminate this threat.
Judge Vijaylakshmi further explained that proper counseling at both campus and family levels is essential to educate students about the physical and mental harm caused by ragging. She reminded the audience that ragging is not only unethical but also a legally punishable offense under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code. She also pointed out that drug abuse and social media often play a negative role in perpetuating ragging.
At the conclusion of the event, Judge Vijaylakshmi awarded certificates to the participating students, commending their efforts in raising awareness about the evils of ragging. She also addressed the students' queries related to ragging, providing clarifications and legal perspectives. The event was attended by heads of various departments, faculty members, non-teaching staff, and a large number of law students.
