Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed growing protests and online backlash over the UGC 2026 equity regulations, assuring students, faculty, and critics that the new rules “will not lead to discrimination and no one can misuse the law.”

Notified on January 13, 2026, the regulations require higher education institutions to set up Equal Opportunity Centres, Equity Committees, grievance redressal systems, and 24/7 helplines to address caste-based and other forms of discrimination. The Ministry emphasized that the rules operate within the Constitution of India and under Supreme Court directives, aiming to foster safer, more inclusive learning environments.

While critics have raised concerns about vague definitions, lack of procedural safeguards, and potential misuse against general-category students, Pradhan highlighted that the government and UGC are responsible for ensuring fair and just implementation. The Ministry of Education plans to issue further clarifications to counter misinformation and strengthen public understanding of the regulations.

The statement seeks to reassure stakeholders that the UGC 2026 rules are designed to protect all students’ rights, uphold equity, and maintain campus harmony nationwide.