The University Grants Commission (UGC) has initiated an inquiry into the death of a 19-year-old student at a college in Dharamshala on December 26. Allegations suggest the student fell ill due to ragging by four students and sexual harassment by a professor.
Responding to the incident, the UGC has set up a fact-finding committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the student’s demise and the accusations made against the individuals involved.
Four students from a government college in Dharamshala have been accused of ragging in connection with the case. Additionally, a professor at the same institution faces charges of sexually harassing the deceased female student.
The Himachal Pradesh Scheduled Castes Commission has also intervened, requesting a detailed report on the matter. Commission Chairman Kuldeep Kumar Dhiman emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of discrimination.
The case has sparked public outcry, questioning the college and police administration’s roles. An FIR has been filed against four female students and a college professor in relation to the incident.
Despite this, the college administration has refused to acknowledge the deceased as a current student, prompting scrutiny of their actions by the victim’s family and guardians.
Following a complaint by the victim’s father, the Dharamshala police have registered a case under relevant sections of the law dealing with sexual harassment, causing hurt, and the prohibition of ragging. The complaint also highlights allegations of casteist slurs and mental harassment faced by the victim.
