Key Points of the New UGC Regulations
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 to curb caste-based discrimination and promote inclusiveness in universities and colleges across India.
• Mandatory institutional mechanisms:
o Every higher education institution (HEI) must set up an Equal Opportunity Cell (EOC) to address caste and other discrimination.
o Equity Committees must be formed to examine complaints and oversee the enforcement of equity policies.
o Institutions are also required to run a 24-hour Equity Helpline for reporting issues, with confidentiality available on request.
• Composition of the Equity Committee : As per the regulations, the Equity Committee must include a mix of stakeholders to ensure inclusive representation:
Chair: Head of the institution
Members:
o Senior faculty members (usually three)
o One representative of non-teaching staff
o Two representatives from civil society (external members)
o Two student representatives
o Representation must include individuals from the following groups:
✓ Scheduled Castes (SC)
✓ Scheduled Tribes (ST)
✓ Other Backward Classes (OBC)
✓ Persons with disabilities (PwD)
✓ Women
o The committee is required to meet at least twice a year to review complaints and action taken, while the institution must publish bi-annual reports detailing its activities, demographic data of students and staff, dropout rates, and the status of grievances received.
Complaint Handling Timeline :The regulations lay out timeline benchmarks (bye-law style processes) for handling complaints:
1. A complaint is received by the EOC or Equity Committee.
2. Equity Committee must meet within 24 hours of receipt.
3. The committee must submit its inquiry report to the institutional head within 15 working days.
4. The head must initiate further appropriate action within seven working days.
• Awareness and prevention:
o HEIs must organise sensitisation workshops and awareness programmes for staff and students about discrimination and equity.
• Complaint filing process:
o Students, teachers or staff who experience caste-based discrimination can file complaints online, in writing, by email, or through the helpline.
o If allegations involve criminal offences, cases must be forwarded to the police without delay.
• Right to appeal:
o If someone is dissatisfied with the Equity Committee’s decision, they can appeal to an Ombudsperson within 30 days.
• Accountability and penalties:
o Institutions that fail to implement the new rules may face strict consequences, including potential loss of UGC recognition or financial support.
Objective
The regulations aim to create a non-discriminatory, safer, and more inclusive academic environment for all, especially for students from marginalised communities in higher education.