Tripura Human Rights body seeks probe into ragging incidents at two hostels, directs DGP, DMs for probe

By Web Desk, Agartala 07-07-2025 07:34:07 PM 90 views

The Tripura Human Rights Commission (THRC) has taken suo-motu cognizance of two separate incidents of alleged ragging at hostels in West and Khowai districts and has directed concerned authorities to conduct thorough investigations and submit reports by July 24.

In one incident, reports emerged of physical and mental harassment at the boys’ hostel of the renowned Umakanta Academy in Agartala. Taking note of media coverage, THRC Chairperson Justice Arindam Lodh directed the Director General of Police (DGP), District Magistrate (DM) of West Tripura, and the Director of School Education to submit detailed responses.

The matter prompted immediate action from Tribal Welfare Minister Bikas Debbarma, who visited the hostel and held an emergency meeting with school staff, hostel authorities, and students. Expressing deep concern, the minister warned of strict administrative and legal action if the allegations are substantiated.

“The Commission considers this a serious violation of the human rights of the students and has taken cognizance accordingly,” the THRC stated in its order.

In a separate incident at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) in Ramchandraghat, Khowai District, a Class IX student, Ayush Dutta, allegedly fled the hostel after facing persistent ragging by seniors. According to reports, Ayush returned to his home in the Sepahijala area and later lodged a complaint with the Khowai Police Station. He alleged that he was subjected to both physical punishment and unreasonable demands by senior students.

The school authorities had initially filed a missing person report, unaware that the student had safely returned home. As of now, the school has not issued any formal statement or confirmed if disciplinary steps have been initiated.

In this case, the THRC has directed the DGP, DM of Khowai, and the Principal of JNV to submit their respective reports on the matter.

Both cases are scheduled for hearing before the Commission on July 24.