What’s Next for Higher Education? Centre to Form Committee on UGC Regulations

The Central Government has announced its intention to create a special committee to reassess the University Grants Commission's 2026 regulations, which aim to foster equity in higher education. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by students regarding potential exclusion and discrimination. The Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the implementation of these regulations, emphasizing the need for a framework that protects all students. The case has its roots in tragic incidents of caste discrimination on campuses, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safeguards. As discussions unfold, the focus remains on ensuring the welfare of the younger generation in educational institutions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2026, 19:34 IST

Centre's Initiative to Address UGC Regulations

New Delhi: On Thursday, the Central Government informed the Supreme Court about its plans to establish a specialized committee tasked with reviewing the University Grants Commission's (UGC) 2026 regulations, which are designed to enhance equity within higher education institutions.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta conveyed to a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi that the government is actively exploring solutions to address student concerns, ensuring that no group feels marginalized or threatened by the existing regulatory framework.

Mehta stated, "The government is considering the formation of a committee."

The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of safeguarding the interests of all students and postponed the hearing of the petitions for four weeks.

He highlighted that the welfare and well-being of the youth should be the focal point of discussions.

This issue emerged from the case of Abeda Salim Tadvi v. Union of India and related matters.

The 2019 petition was initiated by the mothers of Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi, who tragically took their own lives after reportedly experiencing caste discrimination on university campuses.

The petition called for enhanced protections against such discrimination in higher education settings.

The UGC introduced the 2026 Regulations in January, following consultations, replacing the previous 2012 framework.

Earlier this year, the Supreme Court temporarily halted the implementation of the 2026 Regulations, noting that they seemed vague and potentially open to misuse.

The Court ordered that the 2012 Regulations remain in effect during this period.

Concerns primarily revolved around the definition of "caste-based discrimination" as outlined in Regulation 3(1)(c), which pertains to unfair treatment of individuals from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.

Petitioners from general categories argued that the framework could lead to exclusion and discrimination against non-reserved students, while others supported the necessity for targeted protections.

In August 2026, the Centre had previously informed the Court that the regulations were under review.