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Certain provisions and terms within the UGC Equity regulations have caused confusion and misconceptions among students, and parents, the ABVP stated in an official press release.
People from upper caste communities stage a protest outside the University Grants Commission headquarters against new rules. (PTI)
The Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has appreciated the core objectives of the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) Equity regulations but stressed the importance of clarity and a balanced approach. Certain provisions and terms within these regulations have caused confusion and misconceptions among society, students, and parents, the ABVP stated in an official press release.
ABVP asserts that the UGC and all educational institutions must uphold the democratic spirit, ensuring equal rights for all citizens and promoting a discrimination-free, equitable India. The student organisation urged the UGC to address these concerns immediately and issue clarifications to prevent any divisive situations. Additionally, given the matter is currently sub-judice, ABVP believes the UGC should promptly file an affidavit in court to clarify its position.
ABVP’s National General Secretary Dr. Virendra Singh Solanki stated, “Ensuring harmony and equality within academic campuses is mandatory, a cause for which ABVP has always remained committed. There must be social equality for all sections of society in educational institutions, with no room for discrimination of any kind. However, there are prevailing misconceptions regarding these regulations among students, parents, and stakeholders. The UGC must engage in a dialogue with all stakeholders involved and provide immediate clarifications to dispel these doubts. Collective efforts from all sections of society are necessary to strengthen democratic values and ensure a discrimination-free environment for every student.”
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The University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2026, have stirred controversy among students, teachers, and other stakeholders. A public interest litigation (PIL) has been lodged in the Supreme Court, challenging Rule 3(c) of the new UGC regulation as arbitrary, discriminatory, and unconstitutional, and seeking its repeal.
UGC data reveals a 118 per cent increase in complaints of caste discrimination in universities over the past five years. These regulations were developed following a Supreme Court directive, which arose from a previous petition calling for a robust mechanism to prevent discrimination on campuses.
January 27, 2026, 19:10 IST
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