An educational institution plays a pivotal role in shaping
individuals. As the saying goes, “morning shows the day,” similarly, the
persona of an individual is shaped by the environment they are placed in.
Schools and colleges play a crucial role in shaping their future.
The saying goes, "Let justice be done though the
heavens fall," but in today's reality, justice often feels like an alien
concept, misused and rarely delivered within a reasonable timeframe. Recently,
the brutal rape and murder of a 31-year-old lady doctor sent shockwaves across
the country. The mere thought of her lifeless, blood-stained body sends shivers
down our spines, forcing us to confront the inhumanity within our so-called
humane society. This horrific incident has triggered a series of events highlighting
the issue of student violence, which has become a significant concern for
universities and colleges not only in India but abroad as well.
The main aim of having a student's federation or wings in
government college or for that matter colleges all over India or abroad is not
only to work for students welfare but
also to provide a platform to the students having an inclination towards
governance and leadership to come forward and hone their skills so that we can
produce a true and an efficient leaders
of integrity and courage with good
governance skill for our country as
young minds determine our country's future. But this very essence is lost when
we drag the main stream unhealthy politics into the students federation of
India in various colleges and universities.
Is bringing mainstream politics into students’ forum giving
rise to unethical and criminally inclined budding or nascent leaders of
tomorrow on rise? Can our country produce more efficient leaders if we reform
the norms pertaining to the Students Federation of India (SFI) by confining
college politics within the activities of the college itself in terms of
academics, dramatics or for that matter even activities of the political wing
of college or student federation? Can we reduce goondaism which could be seen
in the protest of RG Kar Medical college by preventing infringement from
main stream unhealthy politics and
politicians in colleges in West
Bengal, thereby reducing illegal and unethical activities in colleges which are in turn infringing the
rights of an innocent college student who are victims of such governance.
In 2024 India's
crime rate stood at 445.9 percent per 10,0000 marking a decline from 487.8 in
2020 which is good indication, but still is a far cry from what we can achieve.
When we talk about crime, a significant fraction is
increasingly seen in various colleges across India. College violence ranges
from political rivalries and shootings to sexual harassment, and it is steadily
eroding educational standards. Often, this violence on campuses is used as a
means to push certain agendas or cover up fascist plans. For instance, in
February 2024, the tragic death of J.S. Siddharthan, a young veterinary student
in Wayanad, Kerala, sent shockwaves through the state and the rest of the
country. He was allegedly a victim of brutal torture and bullying at the hands
of SFI members in Wayanad.
Another alarming incident occurred at Delhi University's
Khalsa College, where a second-year student was injured during a campus clash.
Additionally, in 2024, a student from India lost their life due to violence
while studying abroad.
On August 9, 2024, a 31-year-old female postgraduate trainee
at R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital in Kolkata was brutally raped and
murdered. Her death appears to be linked to the murky politics brewing within
the college itself. Justice is yet to be served, and the process seems
never-ending, involving multiple parties, including a civic volunteer,
postgraduate students, interns, hospital staff, and even the principal.
However, the underlying problem is the failure of the government and the police
department, compounded by the infiltration of dirty mainstream politics into
the college's student federation.
Though justice may or may not be delivered in the courts, no
one can escape the final judgment of God, as divine justice is always perfect.
However, what is most concerning is that an oppressive government is often more
dangerous than the fiercest animals—a sentiment that rings true for many
governments today.
We can only hope that the soul of the departed female
postgraduate trainee doctor rests in peace. But her tragic death will only be
truly honoured if new reforms are enacted to rectify the political structure
involving the SFI nationwide. The aim should be to transform the SFI into a
platform that nurtures emerging talents in governance and leadership, ensuring
transparency in all activities related to education without interference from
mainstream politics or politicians.
The SFI should become a transparent body that is
approachable and supportive for students across the country, contributing to
their personal growth, which, in turn, will directly or indirectly foster the
nation's development and progress.
(Views are personal)
