A first-year medical student from a Gujarat-based college has died, reportedly after being subjected to ragging by senior students. Anil Methania, who had recently enrolled at GMERS Medical College and Hospital in Dharpur, Patan, was among several new students who were allegedly forced to stand for three continuous hours as part of an “introduction” activity organized by third-year students in the college hostel. “Introduction” or “intro” is a term commonly associated with ragging practices on residential campuses, during which senior students often subject newcomers to harassment.
According to reports, Anil collapsed and lost consciousness after the prolonged standing exercise. He was rushed to the hospital, where he later recorded a statement with the police, confirming that he had been made to stand for three hours. Tragically, Anil died shortly after giving his statement. The authorities have sent his body for an autopsy, and the report is expected to shed light on the exact cause of death.
Anil’s cousin, Dharmendra, who lives in Surendranagar district—approximately 150 km from the Patan college—said, “We were informed by the college that Anil had collapsed and was hospitalized. Upon arrival, we learned he had been subjected to ragging by senior students. We demand justice for him.”
Hardik Shah, the dean of GMERS Medical College, stated, “As soon as we became aware of Anil’s condition, we ensured he was hospitalized. He informed the police that he had been made to stand for three hours as part of a ragging incident. We have notified the police and his family, and we are committed to taking strict action.”
Senior police officer KK Pandya confirmed that Anil’s father had filed a complaint, and a case of accidental death has been registered. “The autopsy has been conducted, and the medical team has been instructed to submit a detailed report on the incident. Further action will be based on these findings,” he said. When asked about the possibility of ragging, Pandya added, “We have requested comprehensive information from the college regarding this aspect.”
The University Grants Commission (UGC), which regulates higher education in India, has strictly banned ragging in all forms on educational campuses. Institutions are required to take stringent measures against individuals found guilty of ragging or facilitating such behaviour.
