The horrific case of ragging and torture at a nursing college in Kerala is yet another grim reminder of the deeply ingrained culture of abuse in educational institutions. Despite strict anti-ragging laws and awareness campaigns, the problem persists, revealing systemic failures that go beyond individual incidents. This is not just about bullying; it is about institutionalized violence, a culture of silence, and the alarming politicisation of student life. Ragging has long been dismissed as an unfortunate but routine aspect of student life. In reality, it is nothing short of organised brutality.

The persistence of such incidents, even in professional institutions meant to train individuals for noble professions, raises critical questions about accountability. Why do colleges and universities fail to prevent such atrocities? The answer lies in a mix of administrative negligence, student group dominance, and a lack of real consequences for........

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