Jaipur: Doctors’ associations in Rajasthan have demanded action against ragging in medical colleges after 13 complaints were reported from institutions across the state since early October, prompting concern within the medical community and intervention by National Medical Commission.Medical bodies said action has been initiated in only two institutions so far, raising questions over enforcement of anti-ragging rules. They warned that ragging is not a harmless campus custom but a criminal offence that can harm students’ mental health, academic progress and careers.Dhiraj Jeff, president of Rajasthan Medical College Teachers Association, said ragging is punishable under Supreme Court and NMC guidelines. “It is a crime. Depending on the seriousness of the offence, there can be imprisonment and even permanent expulsion from college,” he said.He urged senior students to avoid any form of physical or mental harassment, warning that such conduct could destroy their own futures.Doctors also called for a clear distinction between healthy interaction and harassment. Dr Jakir Khan, director of Doctors Welfare Federation India, said humiliation, threats, intimidation or exploitation in the name of tradition must not be tolerated.Rajpal Singh Meena, former JARD president, said ragging creates a toxic atmosphere and damages students’ confidence, mental well-being and learning environment. He urged colleges to keep anti-ragging committees active, ensure regular monitoring, provide confidential complaint channels and act firmly against offenders.At Barmer Govt Medical College, 79 students faced disciplinary action, including permanent or temporary hostel expulsion and exclusion from academic activities for varying periods. At Dr SN Medical College, Jodhpur, 19 students, including a junior resident, were suspended after an internal anti-ragging panel found them guilty of objectionable behaviour toward juniors.NMC has sought urgent action-taken reports from the colleges concerned and directed principals and deans to ensure appropriate action.
