Father Muller Reinforces Zero-Tolerance Policy on Ragging Through Legal Awareness Programme
Mangaluru, July 23: Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful and inclusive academic environment by organising a legal awareness programme on “Legal Implications of Ragging” as part of its observance of Anti-Ragging Day 2026.
The programme was organised by the Anti-Ragging Review Committee, FMCI, in collaboration with Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, Father Muller College of Nursing, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing, and Father Muller Allied Health Sciences College, Thumbay.
Although Anti-Ragging Day is officially observed across the country on August 12, the institution commemorated the occasion on July 23 under the theme “Say NO to Ragging, Say YES to Respect,” promoting the values of dignity, empathy and mutual respect among students.
The programme began with an invocation by students of Father Muller College of Nursing. Welcoming the gathering, Rev. Dr. Michael Santhumayor, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, Father Muller College of Nursing and Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, reiterated the institution’s commitment to ensuring a ragging-free campus.
Introducing the resource person, Dr. Nagesh K. R., Convenor of the Anti-Ragging Review Committee, highlighted the importance of legal awareness in preventing ragging and fostering responsible student behaviour.
Presiding over the programme, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, reaffirmed the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards ragging. He urged students to promote a culture of respect, compassion and inclusivity while familiarising themselves with the anti-ragging regulations enforced by the institution and the government. Addressing the gathering of more than 1,000 students, he encouraged them to guide and support incoming batches in upholding these values.
The resource person, Mrs. Latha C. S. Holla, practising advocate, Mangaluru, delivered an informative session on the legal aspects of ragging. She explained the various forms of ragging recognised under the law, the legal consequences and penalties for offenders, and referred to landmark Supreme Court judgments that underline the seriousness of the offence. Her interactive session sensitised students to their rights, responsibilities and the importance of ethical conduct within educational institutions.
Prof. Cynthia Santhumayor, Principal of Father Muller College of Speech and Hearing, proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme witnessed the participation of principals, faculty members, Anti-Ragging Committee members and students from all constituent colleges of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, reaffirming the institution’s collective resolve to foster a campus environment founded on respect, safety and human dignity.
