New Delhi: A fresh petition has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new regulations, alleging that they discriminate against the general category. The petition was submitted on Tuesday by advocate Vineet Jindal, who contends that the rules violate the fundamental rights of the general category.
The plea seeks a stay on the implementation of Regulation 3(c) of the UGC Regulations 2026. It also calls for the provisions under the 2026 rules to be applied equally to individuals of all castes. This is not the first time the Supreme Court has been approached over allegations of bias against the general category under these new norms.
Previously, a public interest litigation (PIL) had challenged Regulation 3(c) of the UGC’s new rules, describing it as arbitrary, discriminatory, and unconstitutional. The petition argued that the provision, introduced in the name of promoting equality in higher education, actually encourages discrimination against certain groups, particularly the general category, potentially excluding them from educational opportunities.
The petitioners claimed that Regulation 3(c) violates Articles 14 (Right to Equality), 19 (Freedom of Expression), and 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) of the Constitution. They also stated that it contravenes the UGC Act, 1956, and undermines the fundamental objective of ensuring equal opportunities in higher education institutions.
The UGC had introduced the ‘Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulation 2026’ on 13 January. According to the new rules, many institutions are required to form Equity Committees and implement anti-discrimination policies.
The purpose of these regulations is to eliminate discrimination on grounds such as caste, religion, gender, place of birth, and disability within campus environments. The rules mandate all higher education institutions, including universities and colleges, to establish Equity Committees tasked with investigating complaints and taking strict action against offenders. Such actions may include withholding degrees or withdrawing institutional recognition.
According to UGC data, complaints related to caste-based discrimination in universities have risen by 118 percent over the past five years. These regulations were formulated following Supreme Court directions in response to an earlier petition demanding stronger mechanisms to prevent discrimination on campuses.
The matter remains under judicial consideration as the institutions and stakeholders await clarity on the implementation of these new regulations.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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