The UGC’s Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, have been challenged before the Supreme Court for allegedly excluding general category students from the grievance redressal mechanism, raising constitutional concerns over equality and access to justice in universities.
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NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) is facing legal backlash after its newly notified UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026 was challenged before the Supreme Court of India for allegedly excluding general category students from its grievance redressal framework.
The regulations, notified on January 13, aim to eradicate discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, race, disability, or place of birth across higher educational institutions in India. The rules also mandate the establishment of Equal Opportunity Centres and Equity Committees in all colleges and universities.
However, the latest petition argues that the regulations are exclusionary and unconstitutional as they restrict grievance redressal mechanisms to students belonging only to SC/ST or OBC categories, leaving out the general category.
The UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, were introduced with the objective of promoting equity and inclusion across all higher education institutions. The regulations are intended to ensure that:
- Discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, race, or disability is eliminated
- Disadvantaged groups are protected and supported
- Institutions are held accountable for discrimination cases
- Equal Opportunity Centres and Equity Committees are established in all institutions
The main point of contention is the grievance redressal mechanism under the regulations.
A petition filed before the Supreme Court contends that the rules deny general category students access to institutional grievance redressal mechanisms based on caste identity. The plea argues that this exclusion:
- Denies equal protection under the law
- Violates the Constitution’s equality principles
- Amounts to impermissible state discrimination
- Leaves a large section of students vulnerable without institutional support
The petition seeks a direction to stay the implementation of the regulations and to declare the exclusion of general category students as unconstitutional.
The regulations have also sparked protests across various universities. Dominant-caste students have alleged that the rules are biased and could be misused to target them. Critics argue that the rules could create an environment of fear and mistrust on campuses.
The challenge to the UGC regulations is expected to trigger a significant constitutional debate. The Supreme Court’s verdict will have far-reaching implications for equity policies in higher education institutions across India.
UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has notified the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, aimed at strengthening fairness, inclusion, and equal treatment across universities and colleges in India. The regulations seek to eliminate discrimination on campuses and ensure a safe, respectful, and inclusive academic environment for students, teachers, and staff.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory body responsible for coordinating, funding, and maintaining academic standards in higher education in India. Its origins trace back to the Sargeant Report, 1944, followed by the formation of a University Grants Committee in 1945. The UGC was formally established in 1953 and became a statutory body under the UGC Act, 1956. Headquartered in New Delhi, it functions under a Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and members appointed by the Central Government.
Key Provisions of UGC Equity Regulations, 2026
- Expanded Definition of Discrimination: Covers direct and indirect discrimination based on caste, religion, race, gender, place of birth, or disability.
- Caste-Based Protection: Explicit protection extended to SC, ST, and OBC communities, addressing gaps in earlier frameworks.
- Mandatory Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs): All higher education institutions must establish EOCs to promote equity and handle discrimination complaints.
- Equity Committees: Institutions must form Equity Committees under EOCs with mandatory representation from SCs, STs, OBCs, women, and persons with disabilities.
- Accountability and Reporting: Bi-annual and annual reports on equity measures are mandatory, enhancing transparency.
- National Monitoring Committee: UGC will constitute a national-level body to review implementation and recommend corrective measures.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Violations may result in withdrawal of UGC schemes, programme restrictions, or loss of recognition.
Ombudsperson Under UGC Rules 2026
The regulations introduce an Ombudsperson as an independent appellate authority. Students or staff can approach the Ombudsperson if dissatisfied with the institution’s grievance redressal process. Decisions of the Ombudsperson are binding on institutions.
ALSO READ: Supreme Court: “UGC Must Be Given Teeth to Punish Caste Discrimination in Colleges”
Role of Equal Opportunity Centres
Equal Opportunity Centres will act as the nodal bodies for promoting equity, preventing discrimination, spreading awareness, supporting disadvantaged groups, maintaining reporting mechanisms, and ensuring inclusive institutional practices.
Composition of Equity Committees
Each Equity Committee will be chaired by the head of the institution and include senior faculty, staff members, civil society representatives, and student representatives, ensuring adequate representation of marginalized groups.
Click Here to Read Previous Reports on Anti-Caste Discrimination