Imagine starting your journey towards a career in nursing with dreams as big as your heart, only to have those dreams shattered by an act of cruelty. This is the reality that a 19-year-old student from Kerala faced at the Amrita College of Nursing in Kochi.
“My passion for nursing led me to choose Amrita, hoping to make a difference in healthcare,” he shared with a heavy heart. “But today, I find myself awaiting my transfer certificate instead of pursuing my dreams.”
The ordeal began last year when he fell victim to alleged ragging, an incident that not only left him physically injured but also mentally scarred. “I was instructed to go to a senior’s house with my friends,” he recalled. “Once there, they separated us and subjected me to a brutal assault. They used their hands and even a hanger, threatening me with dire consequences if I dared to speak up.”
The trauma didn’t end there. Despite lodging a complaint and seeking help from authorities after the initial incident, his attempts to continue his studies were marred by ongoing threats and intimidation from the seniors. “They believed I had reported them, which led to further torture,” he explained. “Even though police and faculty intervened at one point, the fear persisted.”
This series of events, coupled with health issues that affected his attendance, ultimately forced him to reconsider his path. “I had to think of my safety and my future,” he confessed. “Now, I’m looking to start fresh, perhaps in psychology or culinary arts at another college.”
His story highlights a stark reality that many students face across campuses—a reality where the pursuit of education and dreams is marred by the menace of ragging. It’s not just a harmless tradition; it’s a serious issue that can have devastating consequences on young lives.
As we reflect on this young man’s journey cut short, let us also consider the broader implications. Ragging isn’t just about harmless pranks; it’s about power dynamics and the impact it can have on someone’s life and future. It’s a call to action for institutions to enforce stricter anti-ragging policies and create safer environments where students can thrive without fear.
Let’s ensure that no other aspiring student has to sacrifice their dreams at the hands of such senseless violence. It’s time to stand up, speak out, and ensure that every student’s journey towards a brighter future is free from fear and intimidation. Because every dream deserves a chance to flourish, untainted by the shadows of ragging.
arun564