New Delhi: Defending the University of Grants Commission (UGC), BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, referring to a letter of the grants body, said UGC has clearly mentioned that it will not discriminate on the basis of any caste, creed or religion in the society, ensuring that Article 14 as mentioned in the country’s constitution, drafted by Ambedkar, is followed and respected.
He was responding to the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, announced on January 13. The rules framed by the statutory body under the Union education ministry will be applicable to all campuses across the country.
According to experts, it seeks to ensure that no student, teacher, or staff member is denied dignity or opportunity in higher education on the basis of identity.
Know what are the rules:
The new norm aims to make Indian universities and colleges more inclusive. The regulations apply to all higher education institutions (HEIs) across India and replace the earlier equity framework.
They require universities and colleges to prevent, identify, and respond to various forms of discrimination in admissions, classrooms, hostels, and workplace environments.
Discrimination is broadly defined to include explicit, implicit, indirect, and structural unfair treatment.
Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs): Every institution must set up an EOC to handle equity-related functions like policy implementation, counselling, and grievance redressal.
Equity Committees: These take complaints, investigate cases, and must include representatives from diverse groups.
Equity Squads & Ambassadors: Mobile units and representatives meant to maintain vigilance and support reporting at departmental and hostel levels.
Equity Helpline: A 24×7 helpline for stakeholders to report discrimination confidentially.
Complaints must be responded to quickly, with strict timelines for inquiry and action.
There’s an ombudsperson for appeals if someone disagrees with the committee’s findings.
The UGC will monitor compliance; serious penalties apply for non-compliance, such as loss of eligibility for central schemes or recognition
