In an interim order, the Supreme Court has put a hold on the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) 2026 Regulations promoting equity in higher education institutions. The court has instructed that the 2012 UGC Regulations will remain in effect until further notice. The decision came following concerns raised in petitions about potential discrimination and lack of grievance redressal mechanisms under the new regulations.
The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, used its special powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to ensure comprehensive justice by suspending the 2026 Regulations. The court emphasized that the 2012 Regulations will continue until a future ruling. The case is scheduled for further hearing on March 19.
During the proceedings, the Bench, headed by CJI Kant, expressed apprehension about the divisive impact of the new regulations, warning of serious societal consequences if left unchecked. The court stressed the need for intervention to prevent harmful repercussions and societal divisions. The matter was listed for hearing after urgent listing was requested and defects in the petition were addressed.
The petitions challenging the UGC’s new framework allege that it perpetuates discrimination by excluding grievance redressal avenues for individuals not from SC/ST/OBC categories. They argue that the regulations violate principles of equality and fair access to remedies in higher education. The petition seeks to ensure that grievance redressal mechanisms are available in a non-discriminatory manner, pending a review or amendment of Regulation 3(c) to promote equality and fairness.
