New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the implementation of the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) newly introduced anti-discrimination regulations following protests by General Category students in Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and other states. The students alleged that the rules disproportionately favour reserved categories and could undermine their security on campuses. Observing that the guidelines were vague and could lead to further divisions in educational institutions, the apex court directed that the 2012 UGC regulations will continue to remain in force and posted the matter for further hearing on March 19.
The UGC had notified the new rules on January 13 to curb discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, disability, or place of birth. The framework mandates the formation of Equity Committees in all colleges and universities, requires complaints to be addressed within fixed timelines, and calls for 24/7 student helplines. The regulator also empowered itself to withhold grants or withdraw recognition from institutions failing to comply.
Opposing the move, General Category students argued that the provisions primarily protect SC, ST, and OBC students while lacking safeguards against false complaints, raising concerns over possible misuse. Responding to the backlash, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured that the rules would not be abused and clarified that the changes were introduced in line with earlier Supreme Court directions following student suicide cases, aimed at strengthening accountability and preventing discrimination on campuses.