ISF MLA Nawsad Siddique Urges Jadavpur University Authorities to Combat Shocking Ragging Against Muslim Student
A troubling allegation has emerged from Kolkata’s Jadavpur University as West Bengal’s Indian Secular Front (ISF) MLA Nawsad Siddique has voiced concerns over the harassment of a first-year Muslim student. This incident adds to growing apprehensions regarding ragging practices at the prestigious institution, which has been under scrutiny for past abuses.
The first-year undergraduate student, enrolled in the International Relations program, accused two research scholars from his own department of harassment. In a letter addressed to the Pro-Vice Chancellor, the student detailed a distressing encounter where he was allegedly threatened and prevented from leaving a space. “I am really scared and feel threatened. I ask you to take strict action against them,” the student expressed in his letter dated May 21. He noted the irony of experiencing ragging at an institution that has fostered numerous movements against such behavior.
When approached for further comment, the student declined to speak, citing intimidation and expressing concern for his safety, as well as that of his family. MLA Siddique responded promptly, asserting that the student’s experience constitutes a form of abuse deeply rooted in ragging. He highlighted the vulnerability of students from underprivileged backgrounds, stating that such threats could further marginalize them in an educational landscape that already presents significant challenges.
The ISF representative also referenced a tragic incident from 2023 when a student died in a university hostel, underscoring the serious ramifications of ragging that remain unresolved even after two years. Multiple incidents have surfaced at Jadavpur University in recent years, prompting mass protests and rallies against the ragging culture that persists in both campus and hostel environments.
In a twist, the two research scholars accused of harassment have filed a countercomplaint with the Internal Complaints Committee, claiming they, too, were victims of harassment from the first-year student. This development adds layers of complexity to the already fraught situation.
In response to the allegations, an urgent meeting of the university’s anti-ragging committee was convened on May 23 to address the concerns raised. The Students Federation of India representatives at the university have demanded a comprehensive investigation into the matter and the implementation of strict penalties for those found guilty.
While university officials, who requested anonymity, suggested that the incident may be politically motivated, they noted that eyewitnesses have claimed there is no substantiated issue of ragging involved.
As this situation unfolds at Jadavpur University, stakeholders both within and outside the institution are watching closely for accountability and genuine progress in eradicating ragging, an issue that continues to divide opinions and evoke strong emotions within the community.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/west-bengal/isf-mla-nawsad-siddique-writes-to-jadavpur-university-authorities-against-ragging-of-muslim-student/article69610531.ece
Category : West Bengal
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Publish Date: 2025-05-24 11:40:00
