Concerns Raised Over UGC Guidelines by Samajwadi Party MP
Concerns Over Inclusivity in UGC Guidelines
On Wednesday, Ram Gopal Yadav, a member of the Samajwadi Party, expressed his apprehensions regarding the new guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC). He questioned the claims of inclusive representation, pointing out that the proposed committee aims to include all sections of society, yet benefits like the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) quota are already reserved for the 'upper' class. Yadav raised doubts about whether true inclusivity is being achieved.
He stated, “All sections of society are said to be included. It has been mentioned that a committee will be formed to assess those affected. A handful of individuals are attempting to monopolize all jobs in the country, and this is for them. The EWS is entirely reserved for the 'upper' class. So, are they really included in this?”
Background on UGC's New Regulations
Yadav's comments followed the UGC's announcement of new regulations on January 13, which update the rules established in 2012. These new guidelines have faced significant criticism from students in the general category, who argue that the framework could lead to discrimination against them. Under the new rules aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination in colleges and universities, institutions are required to establish special committees and helplines to address complaints, particularly from students belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
Government's Response to Concerns
In an effort to address the concerns regarding the UGC's new regulations, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured that there would be no misuse of the law and that its implementation would be free from discrimination. Speaking to reporters, Pradhan stated, "I assure everyone that there will be no discrimination, and no one can misuse this law." Earlier on Tuesday, students protested against the UGC's policies outside Lucknow University, chanting slogans.