Mangaluru: Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive academic environment, Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) observed Anti-Ragging Day 2026 by organizing an enlightening guest lecture on “Legal Implications of Ragging.
“The programme was conducted by the Anti-Ragging Review Committee, FMCI, in collaboration with Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, Father Muller College of Nursing, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, Father Muller College (Speech & Hearing), and Father Muller Allied Health Sciences College, Thumbay.
Although Anti-Ragging Day is officially observed nationwide on 12 August, the institution commemorated the occasion on 23 July 2026, embracing this year’s theme, “Say NO to Ragging, Say YES to Respect,” to instill the values of dignity, empathy, and mutual respect among students.
The programme commenced with an invocation rendered by the students of Father Muller College of Nursing. Rev. Dr. Michael Santhumayor, Administrator of Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller College of Allied Health Sciences, Father Muller College of Nursing, and Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, welcomed the gathering and emphasized the institution’s dedication to ensuring a ragging-free campus.
Introducing the guest speaker, Dr. Nagesh K. R., Convenor of the Anti-Ragging Review Committee, FMCI, highlighted the importance of legal awareness in preventing ragging and promoting responsible student conduct.
Presiding over the function, Rev. Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, addressed the gathering and reiterated the institution’s zero-tolerance policy towards ragging. He encouraged students to cultivate a culture of respect, compassion, and inclusivity, thereby strengthening the values that define the Father Muller community. He emphasized that this gathering of over 1000 students at the convention centre should take in the policies enforced by the college and the government and be advisors to each other and the incoming batches.
The resource person, Latha C. S. Holla, Practising Advocate, Mangaluru, delivered an informative session on the legal dimensions of ragging. She explained the various forms of ragging recognized under the law, the legal consequences and punishments associated with such offences, and cited several landmark Supreme Court judgments that underscore the seriousness of the issue. Her interactive presentation sensitized students to their rights, responsibilities, and the importance of maintaining ethical conduct within educational institutions.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Prof. Cynthia Santhumayor, Principal of Father Muller College (Speech & Hearing).
The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of principals, faculty members, Anti-Ragging Committee members, and students from all constituent colleges of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, reaffirming the institution’s collective resolve to nurture a campus environment founded on respect, safety, and human dignity.