A shocking twist has emerged in the ragging allegations at Ravenshaw University's East Hostel in Cuttack, Odisha. Ten third-year students were ordered to vacate the hostel after being accused of ragging first-year students, but the situation has taken a surprising turn with the first-year students denying any ragging incident occurred.

The Incident

The controversy began on Saturday night when allegations of ragging surfaced, prompting the university's anti-ragging committee to initiate an inquiry. Based on the committee's findings, disciplinary action was taken against the accused students, who were ordered to leave the hostel.

The U-Turn

However, the first-year students have now sent a signed representation to the Vice-Chancellor, claiming they were pressured by hostel authorities to falsely implicate their seniors. The juniors alleged that they were coerced by the hostel superintendent and other staff to accuse their seniors of ragging. In reality, the seniors were having a friendly and informative discussion with the juniors, who had approached them seeking guidance on university matters.

Protests and Reaction

The seniors who were forced to vacate the hostel have begun a peaceful protest, calling for a fair inquiry and restoration of their reputations. They insist that no abusive language or coercive behavior took place during the interaction with the juniors. The university administration has maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards ragging, citing strict action against any student misconduct.

Investigation and Future Steps

The university authorities have defended their actions, announcing enhanced monitoring measures, including regular inspections and awareness campaigns. However, the emerging counter-narrative from juniors has raised questions about due process and fairness in disciplinary proceedings at Ravenshaw University.