Supporters of the regulations, on the other hand, have defended them as necessary corrective measures to address historical marginalisation, insisting that the rules do not amount to reverse discrimination.

What UGC’s Promotion of Equity Regulations 2026 means for students? Why they’re stirring controversy

UGC's New Regulations: A Step Towards Promoting Equity in Higher Education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced a new set of regulations aimed at strengthening anti-discrimination mechanisms in higher education institutions.

Key Features of the Regulations:

Creation of Equity Committees: To promote inclusivity and address historical marginalisation.
Equal Opportunity Centres: To provide support and guidance to students facing discrimination.
Helplines and Monitoring Squads: To ensure prompt action against discriminatory incidents.
Broad Definition of Discrimination: Including explicit acts, implicit bias, and systemic exclusion.

Background and Rationale:

The UGC's Promotion of Equity Regulations, 2026, were framed in response to a reported 118 per cent rise in discrimination complaints between 2019 and 2023.

Mixed Reactions to the New Notification:

Criticism from General Category Individuals: Arguing that the rules are one-sided and do not provide sufficient protections for the accused.
Support from Proponents of the Regulations: Defending them as necessary corrective measures to address historical marginalisation and insisting that they do not amount to reverse discrimination.

The new regulations aim to protect Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, and promote a more equitable and inclusive higher education system.