The Supreme Court halted the implementation of the 2026 UGC Equity Regulations, keeping the 2012 rules in force until further orders.
The bench stressed that victims of discrimination must not be left helpless during this transition.
Chief Justice Surya Kant observed that the new caste‑related provisions appeared vague and open to misuse. Petitioners argued that the rules unfairly targeted general category students and lacked procedural safeguards. The petitions were filed by Mritunjay Tiwari, Advocate Vineet Jindal, and Rahul Dewan.
The Court warned that poorly framed regulations could divide society and even create segregation on campuses. It emphasised that the unity of India must be reflected in educational institutions and cautioned against frameworks resembling racially divided schooling systems.
The challenge focuses on Regulation 3(c), which defines caste‑based discrimination. Petitioners claimed the provision was overly broad and exclusive. The bench noted that equity rules must protect students but also ensure fairness and due process.
The Supreme Court issued notice to the Centre and asked for a detailed response. The next hearing is scheduled for March 19, 2026, when related petitions, including those filed by the mothers of Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi, will also be heard.
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