Twist in Ravenshaw University ragging case: Juniors deny incident, accuse authorities of pressure and fabrication

The alleged ragging incident at Ravenshaw University’s East Hostel has taken a dramatic turn, with first-year students denying that any ragging took place.

According to reports, the juniors, on Monday, sent a signed representation to the Vice-Chancellor, claiming they were pressured by hostel authorities to falsely implicate their seniors, who were later expelled from the hostel.

This revelation comes just a day after the university announced disciplinary action against ten third-year students for allegedly harassing juniors during a late-night interaction on Saturday. The students were ordered to vacate the East Hostel and were temporarily housed in the university’s guest house.

Juniors Claim They Were Forced to File Complaint

In their letter to the Vice-Chancellor, the first-year students alleged that they were coerced by the hostel superintendent and other staff to accuse their seniors of ragging.

The juniors further claimed that the accused seniors were engaging in a friendly and informative discussion when the chief warden suddenly intervened, accused them of ragging, and initiated punitive action.

The application demands immediate revocation of disciplinary measures and reinstatement of the seniors into the hostel.

Protests Outside Hostel

Outside the East Hostel, several of the seniors who were forced to vacate have begun a peaceful protest, calling for a fair inquiry and restoration of their reputations. They insist the conversation on Saturday night was initiated by juniors seeking guidance and that no abusive language or coercive behaviour took place.

“It was a casual, light-hearted exchange. They (junior students) had approached us to hold a casual discussion to learn about the university's legacy, the hostel's history, and general instructions for guidance. We were having a light-hearted discussion on Saturday night when the chief warden arrived and alleged that we were ragging juniors,” alleged a senior resident of the hostel.

University Under Fire

This counter-allegation has raised serious questions about due process and fairness in disciplinary proceedings at Ravenshaw University. Questions now surround whether the administration acted hastily and without verifying facts, casting doubt on the robustness of internal mechanisms meant to handle sensitive student matters.

Earlier, university authorities had defended their actions, citing a zero-tolerance policy on ragging and stating that any form of student misconduct would invite strict action. They also announced enhanced monitoring measures, including regular inspections and awareness campaigns.

However, the growing unrest within the East Hostel and the emerging counter-narrative from juniors has cast a baffling shadow over the management of affairs within the premises of one of the state’s most eminent institutions.

No comments could be obtained from the university officials regarding the new twist in the allegations.