The Supreme Court has put a stay on the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) newly notified rules, calling it a significant and sensitive issue. During the hearing, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) expressed serious concern over the language of the new regulations, observing that they could be misused and may disturb social harmony. The Court noted that the wording of the rules raises questions related to Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to equality. Petitioners particularly objected to Section 3C of the UGC guidelines, arguing that it provides protection only to SC, ST and OBC categories while excluding the unreserved category, especially men. They contended that such classification could promote discrimination and social discord. The CJI remarked that an earlier provision, Section 3E, already addressed discrimination, questioning the need for introducing a new clause. After hearing arguments for about half an hour, the Supreme Court stayed the implementation of the UGC’s January 13 notification. The Court clarified that the 2012 UGC regulations will continue to remain in force for now. Emphasising the seriousness of the matter, the Court indicated that an expert committee may be constituted and announced that the case will be heard in detail. The next hearing has been scheduled for March 19.
Breaking News: Supreme Court Stays UGC’s New Rules, Raises Equality Concerns
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