Mangaluru: Yenepoya Dental College organised an Anti-Ragging Awareness Programme on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 10:45 am, in strict compliance with the guidelines issued by the Dental Council of India (DCI). The programme aimed to sensitise students about the prevention of ragging and to reinforce the institution’s commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful and inclusive academic environment.
Emphasis on zero tolerance towards ragging
The programme commenced with an invocation by Ameen, a final-year BDS student, followed by the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries. Those present on the dais included Dr Laxmikanth Chatra, Principal; Dr Hasan Sarfaraz, Vice Principal; Dr Sham S. Bhat, Dean, Faculty of Dentistry; Dr Maji Jose, Dean of Student Affairs; Dr Shivasharan Shetty, Member, Dental Council of India; Dr Sanath Shetty, Anti-Ragging Nodal Officer; Dr Fahad Mohammad, Convenor, Anti-Ragging Unit; Mr Virupaksha, Sub-Inspector, Ullal Police; and Dr Rajesh Shetty, Head of the Department of Prosthodontics.
In his welcome address, Dr Laxmikanth Chatra reiterated the college’s zero-tolerance policy towards ragging and stressed the responsibility of every student to uphold professional conduct and mutual respect. He highlighted that a positive learning environment is essential for academic excellence and personal growth.
Legal, psychological and academic implications highlighted
Dr Maji Jose outlined the various anti-ragging measures and monitoring mechanisms implemented at Yenepoya Dental College, including mentoring systems, grievance redressal channels and constant vigilance by faculty and administrative teams.
The guest speaker, Dr Shivasharan Shetty, DCI Member, delivered an insightful address focusing on the psychological trauma, academic disruption and serious legal consequences associated with ragging. He emphasised that ragging is a punishable offence under the law and urged students to be vigilant, supportive and proactive in reporting any such incidents.
Commitment to a safe campus environment
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Dr Fahad Mohammad. BDS students from all academic years, interns, faculty members and representatives from the local police were present, underscoring a collective commitment to preventing ragging.
The awareness programme successfully reinforced anti-ragging regulations, promoted ethical and professional values, and reaffirmed Yenepoya Dental College’s dedication to providing a secure and nurturing campus atmosphere.