These days, there is widespread uproar over the new UGC laws. Protests are taking place from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi. The new rules have caused considerable anger within the upper-caste community. The matter has reached the Supreme Court. During the hearing on January 29, the Chief Justice of India stated that the wording used in the regulations suggests that these regulations could be misused.
On January 13, the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued new rules. Under these rules, colleges and universities across the country are required to establish an Equity Center, an Equity Squad, and an Equity Committee. These bodies will look into complaints related to discrimination and ensure that no one is treated unfairly. The committee must include representatives from SC, ST, OBC, persons with disabilities, and women. These rules have caused significant resentment within the upper-caste community.
People accused the rules of creating divisions among society and being open to misuse. Regarding the new regulations, the UGC stated that complaints related to backward classes, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes increased by more than 100% between 2020 and 2025. The rules also specify that there will be a 24×7 helpline. Clear instructions were given that if any institution fails to comply with these rules, the UGC can cancel its recognition or withhold funding.
During the hearing on January 29, the Supreme Court asked the government to constitute a high-level committee to consider how inclusive development for everyone can be ensured without any discrimination. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, while challenging Section 3(c) of the regulation, argued that the test for caste-based discrimination prescribed in it is unconstitutional and would lead to further divisions in society.
