UGC Notifies 2026 Equity Regulations to Address Caste Discrimination in Higher Education

The University Grants Commission (UGC) notified the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, replacing the 2012 framework to address caste-based discrimination in all Indian higher education institutions. The rules define discrimination broadly and mandate the creation of Equal Opportunity Centres, equity committees, helplines, and grievance redressal mechanisms. While the regulations explicitly include Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, critics raise concerns about exclusion of general caste victims, potential impacts on academic freedom, and overlapping institutional mechanisms.