UGC new rules in place to stop caste-based discrimination: Check new guidelines, how to file complaints, other details

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has introduced the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026, which apply to all higher education institutions (HEIs) across India.

These regulations are designed to eliminate caste-based discrimination and ensure equal treatment for all students and staff in colleges and universities.

Under these regulations, caste-based discrimination refers to any unfair treatment of an individual solely because of their caste or tribe.


This applies to students, teachers, and staff belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.

Discrimination, whether direct or indirect, is strictly prohibited in all higher education institutions.
These regulations apply to all higher education institutions, including universities, colleges, and deemed-to-be universities.

They cover every student, teacher, non-teaching staff member, and administrator.

What are new guidelines for institutions?

Each institution is required to:

• Prevent all forms of discrimination, including caste-based discrimination.
  
  
• Promote equity by ensuring everyone has a fair chance and equal access to opportunities and rights.
  
  
• Ensure that discrimination is neither practiced nor ignored on campus.
  
  
• Hold the head of the institution accountable for the proper implementation of these regulations.

Every institution must establish an Equal Opportunity Centre (EOC). The centre will:

• Support students and staff from disadvantaged groups
  
• Provide academic, social, and financial guidance
  
• Investigate complaints related to discrimination
  
• Maintain an online system for reporting discrimination
  

If a college is unable to set up its own EOC, the affiliated university will take responsibility for these functions.

What to do if someone complains?

An Equity Committee must be established under the EOC. The committee will:

• Review complaints of caste-based discrimination
• Convene promptly after a complaint is received
• Submit a report to the head of the institution
• Ensure representation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, women, and persons with disabilities

Each institution must operate a 24-hour Equity Helpline to support anyone experiencing discrimination.

Upon request, the identity of the person reporting an issue will be kept confidential.

How to file a complaint?

Anyone facing caste-based discrimination can:

• File a complaint online
  
  
• Submit a written complaint
  
  
• Email the Equal Opportunity Centre (EOC)
  
  
• Call the Equity Helpline
  
  

If the case involves a criminal offence, it will be immediately referred to the police.
If a person is not satisfied with the decision of the Equity Committee, they can appeal to the Ombudsperson within 30 days. The Ombudsperson will try to resolve the matter within a fixed time period.

What happens if an institution does not comply?

If an institution fails to follow these regulations, the UGC can take action, including:

• Banning the institution from UGC schemes
  
  
• Halting degree programmes
  
  
• Suspending online and distance learning programmes
  
  
• Removing the institution from the official UGC list
  
  

Multiple actions may be taken depending on the severity of the case.