At Anvay, the panel discussion “Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination – Young Adults & Role of Universities,” featured insightful contributions from: 

• Rachel DiBella, MSW Associate Director, Strategic Prevention Initiatives Office for Gender Equity, Harvard University. 

• Aniha Brar, Dean, Young India Fellowship and Vice Chancellor’s Office Ashoka University. 

• Dr. Vinita Chandra, Associate Professor, Ramjas College, Delhi University. 

• Dr. Asha Verma, Assistant Professor of Law, Gujarat National Law University. 

This panel focused on Harvard University and Indian universities by providing insights on the comprehensive policies, educational programs, and cultural shifts needed to create lasting change. 

Harvard University: Bystander Intervention Education: 

• Empowering Students: Harvard University utilizes ‘bystander intervention’ education as a primary model for preventing bullying and harassment. This program trains students to recognize harmful behaviors and empowers them to intervene effectively, fostering a culture of accountability. 

• Community Engagement: The program typically involves voluntary workshops where students learn to disrupt and discourage harmful conduct. By the end of the training, students are equipped with tools to support peers and challenge inappropriate behavior. 

• Justice vs. Healing: The community climate plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of bystander intervention programs. While there has been significant focus on achieving justice in response to harmful incidents, it is essential to recognize that justice and healing are distinct processes. Effective accountability must incorporate healing to address the ongoing impacts of harm within the community. 

• Tailored Approaches: The vast and decentralized nature of institutions like Harvard presents challenges in implementing tailored intervention programs. However, this also creates opportunities to develop customized approaches that resonate with the unique needs of different student populations. 

Combating Ragging and Harassment in Indian Universities: 

• Regulatory Frameworks: Over the last decade, Indian universities have implemented comprehensive policies to combat ragging, bullying, and harassment. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has established mandatory guidelines, including the formation of student grievance redressal cells. 

• Challenges in Reporting: Despite these policies, many students, especially young women, face barriers when reporting harassment. The stigma associated with visibility and the lack of accessible support systems can hinder individuals from seeking justice. 

• Online Harassment: The rise of online harassment presents new challenges for universities. Anonymity complicates tracking harmful behaviors, necessitating a commitment to education and awareness among all stakeholders. 

• Sensitization: Effective prevention of ragging and harassment requires comprehensive training and sensitization of all stakeholders- Vice-Chancellors, faculty, staff, and students. Addressing biases and ignorance related to gender, sexuality, disability, caste, and class. Expanding the scope beyond gender to include broader diversity and inclusivity helps create a sense of shared responsibilities. 

Universities play a critical role in shaping the experiences and values of young adults. As institutions of higher learning, they have a responsibility to foster safe, inclusive, and supportive environments that empower students to thrive academically and personally. However, issues of bullying, harassment, and discrimination continue to plague many campuses, undermining the well-being and success of vulnerable students. 

Both Harvard and Indian universities recognize the need for comprehensive training that extends beyond students to include faculty and staff.  

However, the conversation is far from over. Continuous efforts to adapt policies, foster inclusivity, and promote open dialogue are essential for creating safer and more supportive environments for all students.  

As we move forward, it is imperative that universities remain committed to evolving their approaches and recognizing the importance of both justice and healing in their communities. 

Authored by – Gomathi Sridevi Radhakrishnan, Content Writer Intern, The Legal Swan.