Now, teachers as anti-ragging patrol team

Kochi: The teaching staff of Toc H Institute of Science and Technology (TIST) near here, are taking on an additional role this academic year – that of anti-ragging patrol officers who will conduct surprise checks on college campuses and also at houses or lodges where their students stay in groups. The college has also joined hands with the local police to make the initiative more effective.

TIST launched the covert operation by safety patrols as part of its efforts to prevent ragging and harassment of students both in and outside the campus, as the first year classes have begun.

TIST is also taking steps to stop the misuse of mobile phones by students. Camera phones are completely banned inside the campus. The college will also alert the parents of those students who don’t attend class even for a single day, without a valid reason.

“Usually, anti-ragging activities are limited to college campuses only. We have decided to extend it to houses and rooms where our students stay in groups.

The college has joined hands with the local police at Mulanthuruthy for the purpose,” said TIST Principal Vincent H.Wilson.

The college management has also distributed anti-ragging awareness manuals and launched orientation sessions for senior students. “First year students have been given an emergency contact number in case they need any assistance. We have partnered with the District Legal Service Authority to conduct regular anti-ragging campaigns,” Wilson added.

The anti-ragging awareness programme organised for senior students was inaugurated by G. Anil, sub judge, and secretary of Legal Service Authority. Sathyavan K.E., sub-inspector of Mulamthuruthy also addressed the students.