Supreme Court on New UGC Equity Rules: Centre Considering Committee to Review, CJI Says Protect Every Student's Interest; Next Hearing After 4 Weeks
The Centre told the Supreme Court on Thursday (5 November 2026) that it is considering forming a special committee to re-examine the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told a bench of Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi that the government wants to ensure no section of students feels excluded or apprehensive.
The rules were notified on 13 January 2026 and the Supreme Court stayed them on 29 January 2026, directing that the 2012 UGC regulations continue. The bench adjourned the petitions for four weeks and said the interest of every student must be protected.
What Happened at the 5 November Hearing
- The Solicitor General said the government is considering appointing a committee to address students' concerns.
- He said no one should feel apprehensive or dissatisfied and every student will be looked after.
- The bench said any revised framework must protect every student's interest.
- In August 2026 too, the Centre had told the court the rules were under reconsideration.
- The court adjourned the matters for four weeks.
What Is the Dispute About
The main concern was the definition of 'caste-based discrimination' in Regulation 3(1)(c), which focused on unfair treatment of members of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes. The rules also provided for an Equity Committee in every higher education institution.
| Side | Argument |
|---|---|
| General-category petitioners | The rules are exclusionary and could promote discrimination against non-reserved students. |
| Supporters of the rules | Targeted protection is needed against caste-based discrimination. |
| Supreme Court (January interim order) | Rules appear prima facie vague and capable of misuse; suggested an expert committee for review. |
What Is in Force Now
- The 2026 UGC equity regulations are in abeyance by the Supreme Court's interim order.
- The 2012 UGC anti-discrimination regulations continue until further orders.
- The committee has not been formed yet; the Centre has only said it is considering it.
- The final outcome depends on further hearings and the committee's report.
What It Means for Students and Institutions
- Complaints of discrimination in universities and colleges are for now handled under the 2012 rules.
- The shape of the rules may change after the committee is formed and reports.
- Students and institutions should keep watching UGC's official notices and court orders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the Supreme Court on 5 November?
The Centre said it is considering a committee to review the UGC equity regulations 2026. The court adjourned the hearing for four weeks.
Are the 2026 rules in force?
No, the Supreme Court stayed them on 29 January 2026. The 2012 rules apply.
What is the dispute about?
Mainly the definition of 'caste-based discrimination', which general-category petitioners objected to.
Has the committee been formed?
Not yet; the Centre has only said it is considering it.
Note: This story has been written in our own words by the Emitrawala.com team, based on news reports and public information. Dates and figures are as per reports; confirm with official notices before acting. The matter is sub judice. We have not taken any side.
