Ragging’ At Odisha College Hostel: Over 10 Students Injured In Late-Night Clash
According to police sources, the violence erupted when a group of second-year students allegedly assaulted first-year students inside the hostel on Tuesday night: Reports
BHUBANESWAR: More than 10 students were injured after a late-night clash, allegedly triggered by ragging, broke out inside the hostel of a private Plus II college at Gangapada in Odisha's Khordha district, police said on Wednesday.
According to police sources, the violence erupted when a group of second-year students allegedly assaulted first-year students inside the hostel on Tuesday night. The confrontation quickly escalated into a major brawl, leaving several students injured.
The injured students were admitted to a nearby hospital for treatment. The incident created panic on the campus, prompting the deployment of police personnel to maintain law and order.
Personnel from the Info valley Police Station rushed to the hostel after receiving information about the incident and launched an investigation. Police are examining CCTV footage from the hostel to establish the sequence of events and identify those involved in the violence.
The incident has raised concerns among parents, who have demanded stringent action against those responsible and stronger safeguards to ensure the safety of hostel residents.
College Principal Pravati Satpathy said the violence was preceded by an altercation between students of the two batches.
“One or two first-year students allegedly provoked some second-year students, which agitated them. They initially came to the hostel and attempted to break open the gate. The wardens and security personnel intervened and managed to send them back to their respective hostels,” Satpathy told media persons.
“However, the group of second-year students returned in larger numbers, broke open the hostel gate, entered the premises and confronted the first-year students, demanding to know why they had provoked them,” she said.
She alleged that the second-year students assaulted the juniors with objects they found during the altercation.
“We are conducting an inquiry and will first lodge an FIR. If the investigation establishes the involvement of any student, strict disciplinary action, including rustication from the college, will be taken,” Ms. Satpathy said.
Police said the investigation was underway and appropriate legal action will be initiated based on the findings. Authorities are also examining whether the incident qualifies as a case of ragging under the relevant provisions of law.