Ragging is the term used for the so-called “initiation ritual” practiced in higher education institutions in South Asian countries, including India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. Ragging involves abuse, humiliation or harassment of new entrants or junior students by the senior students. It often takes a malignant form wherein the newcomers may be subjected to psychological or physical torture. In 2009 the University Grants Commission of India imposed regulations upon Indian universities to help curb ragging, and launched a toll-free ‘anti-ragging helpline’.