UGC Calls for Legal Reform After Student Dies in Suspected Ragging Incident

COLOMBO (News 1st); Authorities are intensifying efforts to address ragging-related incidents in Sri Lankan universities, following the recent death of a second-year student at the Faculty of Technology, of the Sabaragamuwa University.

During a high-level discussion held yesterday (5) between university vice-chancellors and officials from the University Grants Commission (UGC), attention was drawn to the need for police support in handling ragging cases.

UGC Chairman, Professor Kapila Senaviratne, emphasized the importance of establishing a robust legal framework to combat ragging and ensure student safety.

The tragic incident at Sabaragamuwa University has prompted multiple investigations.

Four third-year students from the Faculty of Technology were arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and are scheduled to be presented before the Balangoda Magistrate’s Court today.

Additionally, four other students arrested earlier in connection with the same case were remanded until May 16. These individuals are also third-year students from the same faculty.

The deceased student, who was in his second year, reportedly died under suspicious circumstances linked to ragging.

Investigations are currently being conducted by several parties, including the CID, to determine the exact cause and those responsible.

The incident has reignited national concern over the persistence of ragging in higher education institutions and the urgent need for systemic reforms.