Here's why UGC Bill on Discrimination being Criticized: Why General Category students excluded?

CollegeDekho Editorial: The University Grants Commission has recently found itself at the center of a national debate following the release of the "UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2026." While the bill aims to eliminate discrimination and foster an inclusive environment across Indian campuses, it has sparked significant backlash from student groups, educators, and social activists.The primary point of contention: the perceived exclusion of the General Category from the ambit of specific anti-discriminatory protections.

According to the official document released by the UGC, the regulations are designed to provide a robust grievance redressal mechanism for students who face harassment or discrimination.However, the framework specifically highlights protections for students belonging to SC, ST, OBC, and minority communities only. Critically, the draft has been called out for failing to explicitly address discrimination faced by General Category students, particularly those from EWS or those facing regional and linguistic bias.

Critics argue that by categorizing "equity" solely through the lens of traditional reservation brackets, the UGC is ignoring the evolving nature of campus politics and social friction. Several student organizations have raised concerns that this exclusion suggests that General Category students are immune to institutional bias or bullying. This "selective protection" is being viewed as a violation of the fundamental right to equality, as discrimination in higher education can often stem from factors beyond caste, such as economic status, political affiliation, or geographic origin. The issue has reached the Supreme Court, and the uproar has caused a stir within political parties as well. Many senior leaders have submitted resignations from their positions as they oppose the decision taken. They find the accusation to be false and unfair to the General category students.

Furthermore, the bill’s critics point out that while the intent to protect historically marginalized groups is noble, a truly "equitable" regulation should be universal. By not providing a dedicated platform for General Category students to report identity-based grievances under these specific rules, the UGC risks creating a hierarchy of victimhood on campus. There are fears that this could further polarize student bodies and lead to a sense of alienation among those not covered by the draft’s specific definitions.

As the window for public feedback remains open, pressure is mounting on the UGC to amend the language of the 2026 Regulations. For the bill to truly promote harmony in Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs), stakeholders suggest it must adopt a "zero-tolerance" policy for discrimination against all students, ensuring that no individual is left behind based on their category.

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