The Ragging Crisis in Sri Lanka’s Universities: Time to Say “No More!”

Imagine stepping into university life full of dreams, ready to explore new knowledge, friendships, and maybe even reinvent yourself(Ragging Crisis in Sri Lanka). But instead, you’re hit with fear, humiliation, and trauma—all in the name of “tradition.” This is the harsh reality many freshers face in Sri Lanka’s state universities.

Ragging isn’t just “harmless fun” anymore. It’s toxic, outdated, and straight-up dangerous.

What’s Going On?

Recently, Sri Lanka was shaken by yet another heartbreaking incident of ragging that led to a student taking his own life. His only “mistake”? Wearing shorts. That’s right. This wasn’t about breaking the law or harming anyone—it was about not conforming to someone else’s idea of how a student should dress.

This isn’t just one sad story. It’s the tip of a very rotten iceberg.

Ragging has evolved from cheeky pranks to full-on bullying, harassment, and psychological abuse. For many, it starts on Day 1 and can drag on for weeks or months. It’s not just seniors asserting dominance—it’s often backed by organized student groups, sometimes even with political links.

The Hidden Wound: Mental Health

Let’s talk about what’s not visible.

Behind the fake smiles and “I’m okay” texts, many students are silently suffering. Anxiety. Depression. Panic attacks. Constant fear. Ragging doesn’t just bruise your body—it messes with your mind.

For students living away from home for the first time, in unfamiliar surroundings and without a support system, this kind of trauma hits especially hard. Some stop attending classes. Some develop trust issues. Some lose their love for learning. And some, tragically, see no way out.

Gen Z is often called the most mentally aware generation—but awareness without support leads to burnout, not healing.

Why Does Ragging Still Exist?

Here’s the thing. Ragging isn’t a “mistake” anymore. It’s a system that’s been passed down year after year. Some of the reasons it still survives?

“We went through it, so you must too.” (No, you don’t.)
Fear of being seen as “weak” if you complain.
A culture of silence.
Peer pressure to accept abuse as normal.
A lack of real consequences.
It’s like hazing in the worst way. And most of the time, the seniors doing it forget they were terrified freshers once too.

If You’re a Victim, Here’s What You Can Do

First off—you are not alone, and it’s not your fault.

Here are some real steps you can take if you’re being ragged or know someone who is:

1. Speak Up
   Tell someone you trust—another student, a lecturer, a parent. Speaking up is the first step to taking your power back.
2. Report It
   Almost every university has an anti-ragging unit or at least a helpline. Use it. If your university doesn’t act, go straight to the UGC or the police. Don’t wait.
3. Seek Mental Health Support
   If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, please talk to a counselor. Most universities now have one, or you can reach out to platforms that offer anonymous help.
4. Form Support Networks
   There’s strength in numbers. Many students have started speaking up on social media or forming communities to support each other. You’d be surprised how many people are ready to help when you raise your voice.

Taking Care of Your Mental Wellness

Ragging affects your confidence, self-worth, and motivation. So even if the external abuse stops, the internal damage can linger.

Here’s how you can take care of your mind during and after such experiences:

• Journaling: It helps process your feelings and track your healing.
• Breathing exercises & meditation: Helps calm your anxiety when you’re triggered.
• Don’t isolate yourself: Build a circle of people who see you and hear you.
• Avoid toxic positivity: You’re allowed to feel bad. You don’t have to smile through trauma.
• Focus on your comeback, not your fall.
• Healing isn’t instant—but it’s real, and it’s possible.

What Should Universities Be Doing?

Let’s be clear. No student should be expected to “handle it on their own.” Universities must do better.

Have zero tolerance policies that are actually implemented.
Assign trained student wellness officers.
Ensure anonymous reporting systems are safe and quick.
Offer real mental health support, not just posters.
Promote a culture of respect, not fear.
Ragging isn’t tradition—it’s a failure of leadership. It’s time universities stop looking the other way and start standing with the students.

Gen Z, It’s Time to Break the Cycle

We’re the most connected, outspoken, and values-driven generation in history. We’ve stood up for climate justice, gender equality, mental health awareness—why not this too?

If you’re a senior, lead by example. If you’re a fresher, know your worth. If you’re watching from the sidelines, don’t stay silent.

A university should be a place where you find yourself, not lose yourself.

Final Thoughts

Ragging doesn’t make you stronger—it makes you silent. And silence is exactly what this toxic cycle feeds on.

Let’s change that.

Together, let’s build campuses that are safe, inclusive, and empowering. Let’s normalize kindness, not cruelty. Let’s celebrate new beginnings, not scar them.

You don’t have to suffer to belong. You just have to be you.