Background and Judicial Intervention
- The Supreme Court stayed the UGC Promotion of Equity Regulations, 2026, citing sweeping consequences.
- The Bench was headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, with Justice Joymalya Bagchi.
- The Court observed the rules could “divide society” and require closer constitutional examination.
- Pending review, the UGC Regulations, 2012 will continue to govern campus equity.
Core Legal Issue
- The challenge focuses on Regulation 3(c) of the 2026 framework.
- It defines caste-based discrimination only against SCs, STs, and OBCs.
- Petitioners argue it excludes protection for upper-caste or general category students.
- The Court issued notice to the Union Government and UGC on this provision.
Petitioners’ Concerns
- Lawyers highlighted risks of misuse in campus disputes, including ragging-related complaints.
- They argued selective protection could escalate minor conflicts into criminal proceedings.
- The claim stressed that discrimination is not solely caste-based.
Interventions and Counterviews
- Senior advocate Indira Jaising opposed the stay, citing persistent discrimination against Dalits.
- The rules were described as addressing real and present campus inequities faced by oppressed groups.
- Advocate Prasanna S. supported broader definitions beyond caste.
Judicial Observations
- Justice Bagchi urged a shift towards all-inclusive anti-discrimination standards in education.
- The Bench warned against segregation in schools and hostels.
- The Chief Justice questioned the societal impact of divisive norms within campuses.
Significance for Higher Education Governance
- The case tests the balance between targeted affirmative protection and universal equality principles.
- It underscores the role of courts in reviewing regulatory overreach in educational policies.
- The outcome may shape future campus equity frameworks and anti-discrimination enforcement models.