Four students to resume studies after completing prison term - Shimla Now

Authorities in Himachal Pradesh today said that four medical students given a four-year prison term in the Aman Kachroo ragging case can resume their studies as they have completed their sentence.

The state government has granted permission to Abhinav Verma, Mukul Sharma, Navin Verma and Ajay Verma for readmission to Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College at Tanda.

First-year MBBS student Aman Kachroo, 19, from Gurgaon had died at the college in Kangra district after he was ragged by his seniors in 2009. The incident triggered outrage and a nationwide debate to curb ragging.

The accused, who were arrested after a case of murder was registered against them, were sentenced after being convicted by the trial court on November 11, 2010 under Sections 304 II (culpable homicide not amounting to murder), 452 (house trespass after preparation for hurt, assault or wrongful restraint), 34 (common intent) and 342 (wrongful confinement). The Himachal Pradesh High Court upheld the order and enhanced the fine on each convicted student from Rs 10,000 to Rs 1 lakh.

But nine months before their sentence was to end in April, they were released on account of "good conduct".

The four — whose studies were disrupted — have now been allowed by the state government to complete their course. However, the modalities of their admissions will have to be worked out.

Sources said the law department had looked at the provisions under RTE Act before deciding in their favour. According to the state health minister, Kaul Singh Thakur, as per legal opinion, the students could be allowed to complete their MBBS but on conditions like barring them from seeking government jobs after they complete their MBBS.

When contacted, the father of one of the boys said, "My son is sitting at home. I am not aware of anything regarding his readmission. After all, the boys cannot sit idle at home after undergoning punishment."

Courtesy: http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/four-students-to-resume-studies-after-completing-prison-term/652639/on