Is Body Shaming Now a Punishable Offense in India? What Kerala's New Anti-Ragging Law 2025 Means for Students

The Kerala government has introduced the Kerala Prohibition of Ragging Amendment Bill 2025 to strengthen its two-decade-old anti-ragging legislation. This major update comes after the tragic death of J S Siddharthan, a student from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, which exposed serious flaws in the existing law.

What Does the New Law Cover?

• Body shaming, psychological harassment, and digital abuse are now clearly defined as ragging.
• Harassment through internet or electronic means is considered a cognisable offence.
• The law now includes criminal acts such as abetment, criminal conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and rioting related to ragging.

Who Is Protected Under the Law?

The amended law is designed to be gender-neutral, ensuring protection for all students, regardless of gender identity. It applies to students in all educational institutions and hostels across Kerala.

Why Is This Law Important?

• It closes legal loopholes that previously allowed mental and digital harassment to go unpunished.
• It sets a strong precedent for other Indian states to update their anti-ragging policies.
• It recognizes modern forms of bullying, such as cyberbullying and body shaming, as serious issues requiring legal intervention.

With this amendment, Kerala is taking a strong stand to safeguard student well-being and promote safer academic environments.