Massive Row Over New UGC 2026 Equity Norms As Students Protest Across India

This news report examines the intense controversy surrounding the new UGC 2026 equity norms aimed at curbing campus discrimination. While the Congress student wing, NSUI, has welcomed the move, stating 'it's important to address discrimination on campus,' students from general categories have labeled the law 'draconian,' fearing it may divide classrooms along class lines. The regulations, influenced by a parliamentary committee chaired by Digvijay Singh and following Supreme Court directions, explicitly include disability and OBC harassment as grounds for discrimination. The bulletin highlights that while groups like ABVP seek more clarity, others like the Left-leaning AISA question the implementation. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has assured that the law will not be misused and emphasizes the government's commitment to fairness. The report also notes political escalations, including protests at the UGC headquarters and the resignation of an SDM in Uttar Pradesh, as the debate over a potential caste census continues to influence the discourse.