The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a new set of regulations titled Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026, aimed at preventing and addressing caste‑based discrimination and other forms of bias in universities and colleges nationwide. These rules apply to all higher education institutions, including central, state, private and deemed universities.
Mandatory Equity Committees and Complaint Mechanism
Under the newly notified regulations, all higher education institutions must establish permanent Equity Committees and Equal Opportunity Centres to address discrimination complaints from students, faculty and non‑teaching staff. These bodies are required to have representation from Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), persons with disabilities and women to ensure diverse perspectives in redressal processes. The rules also require institutions to operate 24×7 equity helplines and online platforms for reporting incidents promptly. Upon receipt of a complaint, the Equity Committee must meet within 24 hours, complete its inquiry within 15 working days, and submit findings to the head of the institution, with recommended actions taken within the following seven days.
Protection for Complainants and Defined Conduct
Institutions are explicitly instructed to ensure complainants do not face academic, administrative or personal retaliation for raising concerns about discrimination. The regulations also require institutions to clearly define behaviours that constitute discrimination or exclusion based on caste and other identities.
Monitoring and Penalties for Non‑Compliance
The UGC’s regulations provide for a national monitoring system and institutional vigilance teams to track compliance with equity norms. Institutions that fail to implement the regulations may face penalties, including denial of UGC grants, exclusion from central schemes, or even withdrawal of recognition.
Background and Policy Context
The notification follows ongoing concerns raised by courts, students’ groups and parents regarding inadequate mechanisms to address caste‑based discrimination on campuses. The Supreme Court had earlier directed the UGC to consider stakeholder suggestions and notify concrete regulations to tackle such discrimination and ensure accountability in higher education environments. These new rules mark a significant step toward inclusive and equitable higher education spaces, requiring institutions to proactively prevent discrimination and provide transparent, time‑bound redressal for grievances related to caste and other grounds.