[ToI] Panel to probe 'ragging' case

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NAGPUR: The RTM Nagpur university has appointed a three-member committee to probe the alleged ragging of a political science student residing in the varsity’s hostel at Law College Square here.

Gulab Bawanthade on Sunday lodged a complaint against fellow inmate Usmankhan Habibkhan Pathan, accusing the latter of physical and mental torture.

Speaking to TOI, vice chancellor S N Pathan said a preliminary inquiry had been conducted by a two-member committee comprising hostel warden Arun Patil and registrar Subhash Belsare. On the basis of the preliminary inquiry, the university has lodged a formal police complaint.

"The preliminary report suggests that there was no incident of ragging, but it was personal feud between the two. Both of them were classmates while doing MA Marathi. However, the report also brought out some startling revelations that many unauthorised persons stay illegally in the hostel at the expense of these students and harass them," the vice chancellor said.

"Accused Usmankhan is one such person who stays illegally in the hostel and creates ruckus. He is not even an approved teacher of the university. The BPEd college, where he works is also not affiliated to the RTMNU," the VCstated.

The VC said the university’s legal counsel B G Kulkarni had advised him to conduct a detailed inquiry considering the seriousness of the incident. A three-member committee comprising an executive committee member, a dean and a principal would be set up on Tuesday.

"The panel would investigate the incident thoroughly and also hear the version of Hemraj Meshram, who is an eye-witness. His version along with Usmankhan’s would be crucial in the matter. The committee will submit a detailed report within eight days. Based on this report, further action will be taken," he said.