One of my clients recently had a case which I am explaining below and if you are stuck in such similar situation, here is what to do.

Note: Due to attorney-client privilege, I cannot disclose complete case details or identify the actual parties involved. However, I am sharing the essential facts and legal approach so that if you find yourself in a similar situation, you can understand the available solutions and legal remedies.

Mr.X joined a prestigious university in City A for his higher studies. Initially, everything went smoothly until Ms.Y, a senior student, began targeting him with malicious intent. Ms.Y started spreading false rumors about Mr.X’s character and academic performance, attempting to isolate him from his peer group. The harassment escalated when Ms.Y began monitoring Mr.X’s social interactions and creating false narratives about his friendships. She would publicly humiliate him, make derogatory comments about his personal life, and even influenced other students to boycott him. When Mr.X gifted a bracelet to his friend Mr.Z, Ms.Y manipulated the situation by encouraging Mr.Z to post provocative social media content that portrayed the gesture inappropriately. This systematic harassment continued for two years, severely affecting Mr.X’s mental health and academic performance. The situation became unbearable when Ms.Y’s actions started impacting his family relationships and future prospects.

Advice in Such Cases

Consult with Lawyer: The very basic and important step to start is talk to Lawyer / advocate. You should not hesitate in paying his consultation fee i.e. might be in range of Rs. 10,000 to 50,000 depends case to case. He is helping you in this situation to come out. He is expert in the domain and can help you explain the procedure which you might have never explored. A good lawyer can get the issues resolved much faster than you think.

Document all incidents immediately with dates, times, and witnesses present. Screenshot social media posts and messages as digital evidence. Report the matter to university authorities and anti-ragging committees simultaneously. File a formal complaint with local police if harassment continues despite institutional intervention.

Applicable Sections of Law

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), several sections apply to university ragging and harassment cases. Section 351 deals with criminal intimidation, Section 356 covers assault and criminal force, and Section 79 addresses word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty. Section 356 of BNS specifically covers assault with intent to outrage modesty. Additionally, under BNSS (Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita), Section 173 provides for cognizable offenses, allowing immediate police action without warrant in serious harassment cases.

If You Are the Complainant

• File written complaint with university’s anti-ragging committee immediately
• Maintain detailed diary of all harassment incidents with specific dates and times
• Collect witness statements from fellow students who observed the harassment
• Preserve all digital evidence including screenshots, messages, and social media posts
• Report to local police station if university fails to take appropriate action

If You Are the Victim

• Inform your parents or guardians immediately about the harassment situation
• Seek counseling support from university’s student welfare department
• Connect with other victims if harassment is widespread in your institution
• Document physical or mental health impacts through medical certificates
• Contact UGC anti-ragging helpline for immediate assistance and guidance

How the Police Behave in Such Cases

Police typically treat university ragging cases seriously due to Supreme Court guidelines and UGC regulations. They conduct preliminary inquiries, record statements from complainant and witnesses, and coordinate with university administration. However, some officers may initially suggest internal resolution through college authorities. Persistence and proper documentation usually ensure appropriate police response and investigation.

FAQs People Normally Have

Can I file case against senior students for ragging? Yes, ragging is a criminal offense punishable under law with imprisonment and fine.

Will university protect me from retaliation? Universities are legally bound to protect complainants from any form of retaliation or victimization.

Can social media harassment be included? Absolutely, cyberbullying and online harassment are covered under IT Act and BNS provisions.

What if university refuses to take action? You can directly approach police or file complaint with UGC through their online portal.

What Evidence Is Required?

• Written complaints filed with university authorities with acknowledgment receipts
• Screenshots of social media posts, messages, and digital communications
• Witness statements from fellow students, faculty, or staff members
• Medical certificates showing physical or psychological impact of harassment
• Audio or video recordings of harassment incidents if available
• University attendance records showing impact on academic performance
• Communication records between victim and university administration

How Long Will the Investigation Take?

University internal investigations typically conclude within 30-45 days as per UGC guidelines. Police investigations may take 2-6 months depending on complexity and evidence collection. Court proceedings, if initiated, can extend from 6 months to 2 years. However, interim relief and protection orders can be obtained much faster to ensure victim safety.

Advocate Sudhir Rao, Supreme Court of India