New Delhi:
The Supreme Court of India on Wednesday put a stay on the University Grants Commission’s newly notified equity regulations, raising serious concerns over their clarity and potential misuse. The court directed that the rules be re-examined, observing that their language suffers from “complete vagueness”.
The regulations, introduced by the University Grants Commission, have triggered protests across the country, particularly from general category students who argue that the provisions could lead to discrimination rather than inclusion.
Court Questions Social Direction of Policy Framework
During the hearing, a bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant expressed deep concern over the broader social implications of the regulations. The Chief Justice remarked that despite decades of constitutional governance, caste-based divisions continue to persist.
Reflecting on the issue, the court questioned whether policy interventions were inadvertently pushing society backward instead of fostering unity. The bench also referred to instances of cultural discrimination in educational spaces, including hostels, warning against institutionalising separation in the name of equity.
Remarks on Campus Culture and Integration
The Chief Justice highlighted that students from different regions often face insensitive remarks linked to culture or appearance, stressing that such issues should be addressed through inclusion rather than segregation. He noted that Indian campuses have traditionally been spaces where students from diverse backgrounds lived and learned together, and that this ethos should not be diluted.
Centre and UGC Asked to Respond
Emphasising the need for expert review, the court issued notices to the Centre and the UGC, asking them to explain the intent, scope, and wording of the regulations. The bench underlined that any policy aimed at social justice must be framed with precision to avoid arbitrary interpretation.
Constitutional Backing, But No Room for Regression
The court acknowledged that Article 15(4) of the Constitution empowers the state to make special provisions for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. However, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, who was part of the bench, observed that progressive legislation must not result in social regression or undermine equality in practice.
Regulations to Remain Suspended for Now
With the stay in place, the UGC’s equity regulations will not be implemented until further orders. The matter is expected to be taken up again after responses are filed and expert opinions are reviewed.
The ruling is being closely watched by academic institutions, student bodies, and policymakers, as it could significantly influence the future framework of equity and inclusion in higher education.
