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Author :
Nisha Sharma |
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced certain regulations known as the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, to be observed in all HEIs within the country.
The purpose of these regulations is to stop any form of discrimination based on caste and treat every individual in the same way at all educational institutions.
As per these rules, unfair treatment based on caste means treating a person badly just because of the particular social group they belong to.
It targets all persons from the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and Other Backwards Classes among the pupils, staff and teaching personnel.
All forms of discrimination are not allowed in any way in tertiary institutions. They are applicable in every university, college or institution of higher education specified under these regulations.
Every institution must do the following:
Prevent discrimination of any kind, including that based on the caste system.
Promote equity by ensuring that all individuals are provided with equal opportunities and rights.
Ensure that there is no discrimination practised or even looked at as a normal thing on the campus.
Make sure that the chief of the institution is answerable in regard to the effective enforcement of this rule.
An Equal Opportunity Centre (EOC) shall be set up in every institution. The centre will:
Serve students who are members of, or associated with, underprivileged communities
Offer academic, social and financial advice
Examine allegations of discrimination
Host an online portal for discrimination reporting
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