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India government reviews controversial UGC caste discrimination rules
The Indian government has informed the Supreme Court that it is reconsidering the University Grants Commission (UGC) Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026. The regulations, which were notified in January 2026, aim to address caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions.
The rules have faced significant opposition from multiple groups. Petitioners have challenged Regulation 3(1)(c), arguing that the current definition of caste-based discrimination focuses on Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC), potentially leaving general-category students and faculty without adequate protection. Conversely, SC, ST, and OBC student organizations have demanded the implementation of stronger safeguards.
The Supreme Court stayed the implementation of the regulations on January 29, citing concerns regarding their legality and potential for misuse. During recent hearings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta requested four weeks to file an affidavit as the government reviews the provisions. Chief Justice of India Surya Kant granted this request and directed all parties to submit written documentation.
Entities
India · Supreme Court of India · Surya Kant · Tushar Mehta · University Grants Commission
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Solicitor General Tushar Mehta requested four weeks from the Supreme Court to file an affidavit regarding the review of the regulations. news24online.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Supreme Court stayed the implementation of the 2026 regulations on January 29. news24online.com · www.news18.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Supreme Court granted the Centre four weeks to submit an affidavit and directed all parties to file written submissions. news24online.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Petitioners argue that Regulation 3(1)(c) fails to provide explicit protection for general-category students and faculty against caste-based discrimination. english.mathrubhumi.com · news24online.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Indian government is reconsidering the University Grants Commission (UGC) Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026. english.mathrubhumi.com · news24online.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The UGC Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 were notified on January 13, 2026. english.mathrubhumi.com · news24online.com · www.news18.com