The Supreme Court on Thursday stayed the University Grants Commission (UGC) Rules for Promoting Equality in Higher Educational Institutions, 2026, until further orders.

The court expressed serious concerns about these rules, stating that many of their provisions are vague and could be misused. The court also indicated that this rule could have a divisive impact on society and educational campuses.

The bench was hearing three writ petitions challenging the constitutional validity of these rules.

The bench ordered the issuance of notice to the Central Government and the UGC. The court said the notice must be responded to by March 19. The court also ordered that the pre-2012 UGC rules shall remain in force to ensure students are not left without any grievance redressal mechanism.

During the hearing, the bench raised several concerns orally, stating that its provisions are vague and prone to misuse. The petition questioned the need for a separate definition of caste-based discrimination when a general definition of discrimination already exists. It strongly criticized the complete absence of provisions on ragging.

The court expressed concern that these rules could divide students along caste lines rather than promoting unity. The bench suggested that the rules should be reconsidered by a committee of eminent jurists who understand social realities and values.

Addressing the Solicitor General, the Chief Justice said the court is not in favor of passing a final order immediately and instead wants an expert reconsideration of the matter.

The Chief Justice said there should be a committee with eminent jurists… people who understand social values and the problems society is facing. They should consider how society will progress and how people will behave.

Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of the United States is the highest federal court in the nation and the head of the judicial branch, established by Article III of the U.S. Constitution in 1789. Its primary role is to interpret the Constitution and federal law, with the power of judicial review—established by the landmark 1803 case *Marbury v. Madison*—allowing it to overturn laws deemed unconstitutional. The Court’s decisions on critical issues like civil rights, free speech, and presidential powers have profoundly shaped American society and governance.

University Grants Commission (UGC)

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is the primary regulatory body for higher education in India, established in 1956 by an Act of Parliament. It is responsible for coordinating, determining, and maintaining standards of university education, as well as providing funds to recognized universities and colleges across the country.

Central Government

“Central Government” is not a specific cultural site or place, but a general term for a nation’s primary administrative authority. Historically, the concept evolved from ancient centralized empires to modern systems, often located in a capital city (e.g., Washington D.C. for the U.S. or Beijing for China). It refers to the institutions that create and enforce national laws and policies for an entire country.