The Supreme Court will hear the public interest litigation against the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new 'anti-discrimination rules' today. The case is presented before the bench led by Chief Justice Justice Surya Kant. On Wednesday, the petition was mentioned, leading the court to agree to an immediate hearing.
The petitioners argue that UGC's new rules discriminate against general category students. The court was informed about nationwide protests regarding these rules. In response, the bench acknowledged the situation and instructed to rectify the technical deficiencies present in the petition.
Source: aajtak
What Do the UGC's New Rules Entail?
The new regulations mandate the formation of equality committees in all higher education institutions. These committees are tasked with investigating discrimination complaints and promoting equity. According to the rules, these committees must include representatives from Other Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, women, and disabled individuals.
Concerns Over Possible Misuse
These new rules replace the advisory ones from 2012. Critics argue the lack of procedural clarity raises misuse concerns. Additionally, it is claimed that this framework includes OBC community members as potential victims but excludes general category students, perpetuating caste-based discrimination allegations against them.
Source: aajtak
Widespread Student Protests
Students have held protests against the new rules in several states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar. Meanwhile, the Union Education Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan, assures there will be no discrimination under the new rules and misuse will be prevented. He stated that it is the government and institutions' responsibility to prevent the law's misuse.
