Crime Against Women and Anti-Ragging Session
On 20th September 2024, at MM BGIMS, the Women Development Cell (WDC) and the Anti-Ragging Cell organised event for Crime Against Women and Anti-Ragging Session which was attended by 71 students and 09 Staff members, and they worked hand in hand to foster a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for all students. The WDC is dedicated to promoting gender equality and empowering women, recognizing that these are essential pillars for a just and equitable society. Similarly, the Anti-Ragging Cell is committed to ensuring that the campus remains free from all forms of harassment and bullying, with zero tolerance for ragging. Together, these cells strive to raise awareness, promote safety, and contribute to the overall well-being of students by creating a culture of mutual respect and security. This session aimed to reinforce these principles, with a focus on promoting female safety and eradicating all forms of violence against women and girls. A Mumbai police resource person heading the Nirbhaya Squad i.e. API Ratna Khandelwal was called for the session.
About the Event
In collaboration with the Anti-Ragging Cell, the Women Development Cell organized a session featuring API Ratna Khandelwal, who passionately spoke about the necessity of ensuring female safety on and off campus. Her message resonated with the broader goals of both WDC and the Anti-Ragging Cell, as she emphasized the responsibility of society in protecting and respecting women. Khandelwal shed light on the role of the Nirbhaya Squad, its vital functions, and the practical measures to be taken in case of emergencies. The session aimed to equip students with knowledge about the squad’s operations while reinforcing a culture of zero tolerance towards any form of ragging or harassment.
Learning & Feedback
Participants learned valuable information about the structure and roles of the Nirbhaya Squad, as well as the immediate actions that need to be taken in emergencies. Both faculty and students appreciated the session for highlighting how safety measures for women align with the broader objectives of the Anti-Ragging Cell. Feedback underscored the importance of collaboration between the WDC and the Anti-Ragging Cell in promoting a safer and more respectful campus environment, with many attendees acknowledging the need for continued awareness and vigilance against harassment.
Conclusion
By integrating the efforts of the Women Development Cell and the Anti-Ragging Cell, this session successfully promoted both gender equality and a harassment-free campus. API Khandelwal’s powerful address on the importance of female safety, coupled with practical guidance on the Nirbhaya Squad’s role, left participants with a deep understanding of their individual and collective responsibilities. The event reinforced the core message that fostering a safe and empowering environment for women and ensuring zero tolerance for violence, ragging, or harassment are essential for the holistic development of society.