Tragedy strikes as student falls fatally from the Second Floor at Jadavpur University in Bengal

• Before death, the student was paraded naked in the hostel corridor

• 12 students were arrested for ragging the deceased student

Kolkata (Bengal) – The untimely demise of 18-year-old Swapnodeep Kundu, a student at Jadavpur University in Bengal, has sent shockwaves through the community. Swapnodeep tragically lost his life after falling from the second floor of the university’s hostel building. Disturbingly, it has emerged that he was subjected to ragging prior to his death. Moments before the fatal fall, he was coerced into removing his clothes in room number 70 of the hostel and subsequently paraded naked along the second-floor corridor. Law enforcement authorities have apprehended 12 individuals in connection with this incident, including current and former students unlawfully residing in the hostel. Swapnodeep had recently enrolled in the Bengali Language department of the university.

Addressing this grievous matter, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced the initiation of an ‘anti-ragging helpline’ for students. She emphasised that any such incidents should be immediately reported to the Police through the dedicated hotline at 18003455678. The anonymity of the caller will be preserved. Furthermore, the investigation into Swapnodeep Kundu’s unfortunate demise has been entrusted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

गे नहीं हो तो मर्दानगी दिखाओ ! सीनियर ने नंगा कर बालकनी में घुमाया, JU में रैगिंग से परेशान होकर बालकनी से कूदा था छात्र। पढ़िए पूरी खबर। https://t.co/y1b01YUkD7 pic.twitter.com/SOc7zfm9pu

— NBT Hindi News (@NavbharatTimes) August 23, 2023

Criticism by BJP in Assembly

During discussions in the Bengal Legislative Assembly, opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari of the BJP raised poignant concerns about the state of affairs at Jadavpur University. He decried the presence of elements detrimental to the well-being of students, citing rampant drug and alcohol consumption. Adhikari criticised the State Government for what he characterised as inaction in the face of these issues.

What is ragging ?

As defined by law, Ragging encompasses any form of disruptive behaviour, whether through spoken or written words or physical acts, that inflicts or has the potential to inflict physical or psychological harm upon a student within an educational institution. This includes actions that evoke fear, apprehension, shame, or embarrassment.

Editorial Viewpoints

This unfortunate incident underscores the necessity of universities not only providing academic education but also instilling moral values and character-building in their students. Such incidents of ragging are a stain on the reputation of educational institutions and demand swift and stringent action. Preventive measures, awareness campaigns, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy are essential to ensure the safety and well-being of students in their pursuit of education.