Supreme Court stays UGC Regulations 2026; 2012 rules to remain in force until further orders. CJI emphasizes caste-neutral policies and issues notice to Centre & UGC. Next hearing: March 19, 2026.
The Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations 2026, following petitions challenging the new norms as discriminatory against the general category. The court has directed that, until further orders, the 2012 UGC regulations will continue to be applicable.
Supreme Court Issues Notice to Centre and UGC
A bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) D.Y. Sunil Kumar and Justice Joymalya Bagchi heard the petitions, noting that the new rules are ambiguous and could be misused. The court emphasized the importance of moving towards a caste-neutral society and issued notices to both the Union Government and the UGC for a detailed response.
CJI Highlights Need for Clarity and Expert Panel
During the hearing, CJI Sunil Kumar stressed the need for clarity in the language of the regulations and suggested the formation of a special committee comprising educationists and social experts to review the rules. He remarked, “We must advance towards a caste-free society, ensuring protection for all sections without bias.”
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Petitioner Vineet Jindal Raises Concerns Over Section 3C
Petitioner Vineet Jindal highlighted Section 3C of the regulations, which deals with caste-based distinctions. According to him, this section excludes the general category while including SC, ST, and OBC, effectively creating a discriminatory provision. He further noted that Section 18, which establishes the Equity Committee, lacks adequate representation for the general community. The CJI acknowledged these concerns and suggested corrective measures, with the next hearing scheduled for March 19, 2026.
Nationwide Outcry Over New UGC Rules
The UGC Regulations 2026 were notified on January 23, 2026, sparking widespread criticism across the country. Petitioners argued that the regulations violate the Constitution and the University Grants Commission Act, 1956, by promoting discrimination against the general category. Petitions have been filed by Mritunjay Tiwari, advocate Vineet Jindal, and Rahul Diwan, challenging the legality and fairness of the new rules.
Next Steps
Until the Supreme Court issues further directions, institutions across India will follow the 2012 UGC regulations. The upcoming hearing on March 19 is expected to provide clarity and possibly amend the contentious provisions to ensure fairness and inclusivity in higher education.
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