Supreme Court Directs UGC to Frame Anti-Caste Discrimination Rules for Universities

The Supreme Court has ordered the University Grants Commission (UGC) to formulate comprehensive anti-caste discrimination regulations for higher education institutions within two months, ensuring strict enforcement mechanisms.

The directive comes amid rising incidents of caste-based harassment and inequality in universities. The court emphasised the need for preventive measures, grievance redressal systems, and accountability to protect marginalised students.

The Court said it had “no reason to doubt” that the UGC would consider these suggestions along with those from other stakeholders before taking a final decision.

The Court has directed the UGC to notify the regulations as early as possible and fixed a timeline of eight weeks.

[Abeda Salim Tadvi & Anr. v UOI]