The Kerala government has formally assured the High Court that it will complete the process of finalizing the crucial draft Anti-Ragging Amendment Bill within the next 45 days. This commitment comes in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) demanding stricter laws to eradicate the menace of ragging from educational institutions across the state.
Court Hearing and Government's Submission
During a recent hearing, the state's law secretary, K G Sanil Kumar, appeared before the court online and provided a detailed update on the bill's progress. He informed the bench, comprising Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice V M Syam Kumar, that the draft legislation, after incorporating necessary remarks, was forwarded to the administrative department on December 15.
The Director General of Prosecution, acting on written instructions from the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, further elaborated. He stated that the file, along with the modified draft bill, has been circulated to the Chief Minister for approval. Following this, it will be placed before the Council of Ministers.
The Path to Enactment and Court's Decision
Upon receiving formal approval from the state cabinet, the draft bill will be finalized and presented before the Kerala Legislative Assembly for enactment into law. The government's representative explicitly requested a deferment of the petition, stating that at least 45 days would be required to complete this entire procedural journey.
Considering the submission, the High Court bench has adjourned the hearing of the petition to January 6. This provides the government with the stipulated timeframe to advance the legislative process.
Trigger Behind the PIL: A Disturbing Ragging Incident
The PIL was filed by the Kerala Legal Services Authority (KeLSA) in the aftermath of a profoundly disturbing ragging incident. The case emerged from the Government College of Nursing in Kottayam, where junior students were allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse.
Shockingly, the complaints included allegations that freshers were forced to tie dumbbells to their private parts. This horrific event underscored the urgent need to reassess existing legislation and frame more effective rules to combat ragging, prompting KeLSA's judicial intervention.
The state's commitment to a 45-day timeline marks a significant step towards strengthening the legal framework against ragging, aiming to ensure a safer educational environment for all students in Kerala.
