Dhanushka Silva
Ragging and other forms of violence in educational institutions have long been condemned globally for the psychological and physical harm they inflict on victims. In Sri Lanka, such acts are not only morally reprehensible but also forbidden by the Prohibition of Ragging and Other Forms of Violence in Educational Institutions Act No.20 of 1998.
This Act serves as a legal shield, protecting students against any form of harassment or violence within educational environments.
Section 2(1) of the Act clearly states that any individual who engages in or facilitates ragging, whether within or outside an educational institution, is committing a punishable offense. The law imposes stringent penalties, including rigorous imprisonment for up to two years. Importantly, these offenses are non-bailable, reflecting the seriousness with which the law treats acts of ragging.
Furthermore, engaging in such conduct is deemed a gross violation of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka, which guarantees the right to personal freedom and security.
Despite these strong legal protections, incidents of ragging and violence persist in educational institutions across Sri Lanka. The University of Peradeniya- which is considered as one of the most prestigious universities in the country- has not been immune to such occurrences. On 14 September 2022, a shocking incident took place at the ‘Gemba’ canteen premises within the Faculty of Arts. Around 3:00 p.m. a group of students enjoying a meal was brutally assaulted by a mob of undergraduates. The attack escalated from verbal abuse to physical violence, resulting in inflicting injuries and the hospitalization of four victims.
This incident, though alarming, is not an isolated one. Information obtained through Right to Information (RTI) applications filed by attorney Madawa Eriyagama and subsequently by this writer has revealed a troubling pattern of violence at the Faculty of Arts, University of Peradeniya.
Since 2017, four ragging-related incidents have been officially reported out of which two occurred at the ‘Gemba’ canteen. This trend points to a deeper, systemic issue within the campus that needs urgent attention.
The September 2022 assault led to the identification of 11 students who were directly involved in the attack. In response, the university administration took swift action by suspending these students from attending university activities. While this response was necessary, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of the university’s preventive measures and the overall campus culture that allows such violent acts to occur in the first place.
The internal inquiry conducted by the Faculty of Arts following the incident was a critical step towards ensuring accountability. The inquiry identified those responsible and provided the administration with the necessary information to take disciplinary action. However, transparency regarding the inquiry process and the individuals involved is crucial for maintaining trust within the university community. The revelation of the inquiry members’ identities highlights the importance of an open and fair investigative process, which is essential for justice served.
While disciplinary actions such as suspensions are vital, those are reactive measures. To effectively address the issue of ragging and violence in campus, proactive steps must be taken. This includes a comprehensive review of the university’s policies on student conduct and the implementation of more robust anti-ragging programs. Education and awareness campaigns are also essential, focusing on the harmful effects of ragging and the legal consequences for those who engage in it.
Furthermore, the university must foster an environment where students feel safe to report incidents of ragging without fear of retaliation. This requires not only strong institutional support but also the involvement of student leaders and organizations in promoting a culture of respect and non-violence. Peer counseling programs and support systems for victims can also play a significant role in addressing the psychological impact of ragging.
The events at the University of Peradeniya serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in eradicating campus violence in Sri Lanka. The law provides a framework for protecting students, but the enforcement of these laws and the creation of a safe, supportive educational environment require collective effort. Universities must not only respond to incidents of ragging but also work tirelessly to prevent them.
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