Kottayam ragging case: Five students banned from further studies

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Five senior students of Kottayam Govt. Nursing College, who brutally tortured first-year general nursing students in the hostel, have been permanently banned from pursuing nursing courses. The Director of Medical Education, Dr. Thomas Mathew, issued the order, emphasising that individuals capable of such cruelty have no place in the nursing profession, which is centred on patient care. A recommendation has also been made to the Nursing Council for further action.

The accused include second-year students Samuel Johnson and Jeeva N.S., along with third-year students Rahulraj K.P., Rijil Jith C., and Vivek N.V. Their admissions have been cancelled, and they have been expelled from the college. They are prohibited from entering the campus or hostel premises. Additionally, any study benefits they were receiving are to be revoked. All five students are currently in remand.

Following the incident, the government appointed a four-member inquiry commission. Based on the commission's findings, the Health Department Add. Chief Secretary, Rajan Khobragade, recommended strict action, leading to the ban.

The inquiry also revealed that the college's anti-ragging squad was inactive. Disciplinary action has been recommended against the squad members, as well as the college principal and hostel assistant warden, who are currently suspended for negligence in duty.