By Admin 
A major change has emerged in the higher education system of India. University Grants Commission (UGC) has implemented UGC Equity Regulations 2026 i.e. Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations from 15 January 2026. This rule will be applicable to all the universities and colleges of the country. Since then, this issue has remained a subject of discussion and controversy in social media and education world. Let us understand in simple language what these rules are, why they have been brought and why there is controversy over them.
What are UGC Equity Regulations 2026?
The objective of UGC Equity Regulations 2026 is clear. Its objective is to eliminate any kind of discrimination in higher education institutions. Be it discrimination on the basis of caste, gender or any other reason. UGC says that every student should get equal opportunity to study and no one should be treated unfairly.
Under these rules, special emphasis has been laid on protecting the rights of students belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories. It has also been said that such an environment should be created in the institutions where all the students feel safe and respected.
New law in place of old rules
UGC Equity Regulations 2026 have replaced the old rules made in the year 2012. UGC believes that the old rules had become weak with time and many important changes were needed in them. The new rules have been made more strict and clear, so that they can be implemented properly.
Applicable to all universities and colleges
UGC has made it clear that these rules will apply not only to government, but also to private universities, deemed universities and colleges. This means that no higher education institute in the country will be left out of these rules.
Every institute will have to create an Equity Cell, which will listen to the complaints of students and look into cases related to discrimination. If any student feels that wrong has happened to him, he can complain to this cell.
Why is there controversy regarding rules?
The biggest controversy regarding these new rules of UGC is regarding the importance given to “special category”. Many people say that some sections have been given more priority in the rules, due to which the balance may be disturbed.
Many users on social media have expressed their displeasure over this. Some people say that the country’s universities are still lagging behind in global rankings and hence such rules are increasing controversies instead of improving the quality of education.
Most uproar over inclusion of OBC
There is a point in UGC Equity Regulations 2026 which is being debated the most. In this, OBC category has also been included in the definition of caste discrimination. Many students and people of general category are angry about this matter.
He says that OBCs are already getting many facilities and now including them completely in the “discrimination victim class” is a unilateral decision. Such people believe that this may cause injustice to general category students.
Also read -How can one become a doctor in Canada by doing MBBS from India? Learn the easy step-by-step guide
Education Loan Information:
Calculate Education Loan EMI