After the suicide of a medical student, who allegedly faced harassment and caste-based discrimination at the hands of her seniors, it may be mandatory for all educational institutions to establish a cell to handle cases of ragging and casteist slurs. "As part of preventive measures, we are planning to suggest to the state government that a backward classes cell be established in every institution on lines of the Vishakha committee (to prevent acts of sexual harassment)," said C L Thool, member (legal) of Maharashtra SC/ST Commission. This cell will handle grievances and complaints of caste-based discrimination and harassment by students from weaker sections like Dalits and tribals. The commission had taken suo motu cognizance of the suicide of Dr Payal Tadvi. Thool added that as part of their report about the case, which is expected to be submitted to the state government soon, they were planning to suggest the formation of this cell for those from weaker sections. This cell, in turn, would include five members, including two student representatives (one girl student and male student each), two management representatives and one chairman. "This cell will monitor complaints and instances of ragging and caste-based discrimination. They will hold quarterly meetings and publish an annual report," he added. The committee will also conduct workshops to sensitise students against caste-based discrimination and ragging. "If the cell finds any foul play, they will be empowered to lodge a complaint with the police," said Thool. Pratibha Shinde of the Lok Sangharsh Morcha, who had taken up cudgels on behalf of Tadvi's family, welcomed the move. "However, much depends on how these cell functions and those who are appointed to it," she added. FACT FILE

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