UGC rules on caste discrimination: Why BJP govt is ‘reconsidering’ its stand
The BJP-led Indian government is reviewing the caste discrimination guidelines implemented by the University Grants Commission (UGC), after facing criticism that the regulations could be misused by upper castes. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed a three-judge Supreme Court bench that the government is contemplating changes to the guidelines, which primarily focus on caste-based discrimination against Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
The opposition to the guidelines stems from the absence of provisions for penalties against false complaints, and the exclusion of upper castes from the definition of caste-based discrimination. The UGC guidelines were challenged by advocate Vineet Jindal, who questioned why the definition of caste-based discrimination excluded general or upper castes.
The regulations were implemented in January 2026 and faced backlash, particularly in Bihar where the BJP suffered an unprecedented defeat. The Centre is exploring options such as forming a high-level committee to examine the matter, or modifying some provisions, to alleviate the concerns of the upper castes.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
