Gujarat Medical Student Dies After Alleged Ragging Incident; 15 Seniors Accused
New Delhi: A tragic incident at GMERS Medical College and Hospital in Dharpur Patan, Gujarat, has once again cast a spotlight on the issue of ragging, after the untimely death of an 18-year-old first-year medical student, Anil Methania. Anil reportedly collapsed after enduring a three-hour standing ritual, allegedly part of a ragging session conducted by senior students. This incident has led to an FIR being filed against 15 senior students, and the police are now investigating the grave allegations of hazing.
Anil, who had only recently enrolled at the college, succumbed after the prolonged ordeal, which was described by the seniors as an “introduction” session—a term commonly associated with ragging activities at college campuses. After the collapse, Anil was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he confirmed to the police that he had been subjected to ragging. Tragically, he passed away shortly after his statement.
Family Seeks Accountability and Justice
The news has left Anil’s family devastated, as they demand accountability and justice for the loss of their young loved one. Anil’s cousin, Dharmendra, who lives in Surendranagar district in Gujarat, more than 150 kilometers away from the college, expressed their anguish: “We were informed by the college that Anil had collapsed and was in the hospital. Upon our arrival, we were told that he had been ragged by third-year students. We demand justice for what has happened to our beloved family member.”
College and Police Actions
The college administration has responded with concern, as Hardik Shah, the dean of the college, explained, “Once we were notified, we immediately ensured that Anil received medical attention. Anil confirmed to the police that he was subjected to ragging, forced to stand for extended hours. We have informed the relevant authorities and will take stringent actions based on the findings of the investigation.”
Senior police officer KK Pandya confirmed that a complaint was filed by Anil’s father, leading to an accidental death case being registered. “The autopsy has been completed, and we have requested the medical board to provide a detailed report. Depending on the findings, we will proceed with further legal action. We are also investigating the ragging allegations thoroughly,” said Pandya.
Legal Action and the Call for Stronger Anti-Ragging Enforcement
In the aftermath of this tragic event, 15 senior students have been named in the FIR. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has long enforced a strict prohibition against ragging in all educational institutions, mandating severe penalties for those involved in such acts. However, the incident has raised significant concerns about the adequacy of anti-ragging measures, with many calling for stronger enforcement and harsher punishments for offenders.
This incident has reignited the conversation around the prevalence of ragging in Indian colleges and universities. It emphasizes the urgent need for educational institutions to adopt stricter preventive measures and create a safer environment for students. Authorities, educational leaders, and the general public are now calling for a review of current anti-ragging policies, including better awareness programs, more thorough monitoring, and stronger disciplinary actions.
The tragic death of Anil Methania has left an indelible impact on the community, highlighting the ongoing need for systemic changes to protect student welfare and ensure that future generations of students are not subjected to such horrific practices. The call for stronger anti-ragging measures has never been more urgent as the nation grapples with the loss of yet another young life to a senseless tradition.
