Breaking News: Supreme Court Stays UGC’s Controversial Rules, General Category Students Celebrate

The Supreme Court has put a stay on the UGC’s new regulations, citing potential misuse and concerns over caste-based discrimination. The bench, headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant, asked both the UGC and the central government to respond, noting that the new rules could divide society and exclude general category students. The Court clarified that the 2012 UGC regulations will remain in force until further orders, and the matter will be heard in detail on March 19. The decision triggered celebrations among the general category community, with sweets distributed in Ayodhya and other cities, while students in Delhi’s JNU protested against proponents of the new rules, burning an effigy symbolizing caste bias. Political leaders from BJP, Congress, and other parties expressed views, with BJP ministers welcoming the decision, while some student and community groups demand the reinstatement of the new rules. The controversy arose because the new regulations expanded the scope of SC, ST, and OBC protections but excluded general category students, introduced mandatory punishments, and granted investigative powers to committees. The Supreme Court also indicated that an expert committee may be formed to clarify ambiguities in the regulations and ensure fairness for all students, balancing protection against misuse.

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