The Gujarat Health Department has taken strict action against six students of Government Medical College, Bhavnagar, after an inquiry found them guilty in a ragging case. The disciplinary action includes suspensions ranging from six months to two years, along with immediate eviction from the college hostel.
The decision was taken following a marathon meeting of the college’s Anti-Ragging Committee, which began on the evening of June 18 and continued until the early hours of Friday. The meeting was convened on the instructions of Health Minister Praful Pansheriya after allegations of ragging surfaced.
According to officials, the committee conducted a detailed investigation, recording statements from first-year, second-year and third-year students of the Orthopaedics Department, along with faculty members and support staff. Documentary evidence related to the case was also examined before the committee reached its conclusions.
Based on the findings, one student has been suspended for two years, three students have been suspended for one year, and two others have been suspended for six months.
All six students have been directed to vacate their hostel rooms immediately and inform the college administration upon compliance. During their suspension period, they will not be allowed to participate in any academic, clinical, research or college-related activities.
Health Minister Praful Pansheriya reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards ragging and said strict action would be taken against anyone found involved in such activities.
“There will be no compromise on the safety and dignity of students. Ragging and any form of mental or physical harassment will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he said.
Pansheriya added that the Gujarat government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, remains committed to ensuring a safe and healthy academic environment in all medical colleges across the state.
He also commended the Health Department, college administration and Anti-Ragging Committee members for completing the investigation within two days and taking prompt action against those found guilty.
The minister urged students facing ragging, threats, coercion or any form of harassment to immediately report such incidents to the Anti-Ragging Committee, college authorities or other competent officials.
He assured students that every complaint would be investigated thoroughly and appropriate action would be taken to ensure justice and student safety.