NCPCR seeks Jadavpur University's explanation on lack of CCTV cameras in hostel premises

Apex child rights body NCPCR has sought an explanation from Jadavpur University as to why there were no CCTV cameras installed in the hostel premises where a first-year student died after alleged ragging and sexual harassment.

A 17-year-old student died after falling from a second-floor balcony of a hostel last week. His family has alleged he was a victim of ragging.

Terming the lack of CCTV cameras in the hostel premises a violation of UGC guidelines on the safety of students in higher educational institutions, the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has sought an explanation from the university.

Taking suo motu cognisance of the incident, the NCPCR asked for an action taken report from the university within seven days. The NCPCR also wrote to Kolkata Police, seeking an inquiry into the matter.

Six more former and current students of Jadavpur University were arrested on Wednesday for allegedly ragging and sexually harassing the freshman leading to his death. They were remanded in police custody by a Kolkata court till August 28.

Nine persons have been apprehended in the case so far, according to police.

Kolkata Police has taken cognisance of JU students' social media posts, including photographs, which suggest that there was an element of sexual harassment in the ragging of the student.