Dharmendra Pradhan on UGC Rules Row: "No Discrimination, No Misuse"

• Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed the UGC's 'Equality Promotion Regulation, 2026' amidst protests, assuring no discrimination.
• Pradhan emphasized the regulations aim to promote fairness and equity in higher education, urging responsible implementation by institutions.
• Concerns were raised by general category students about potential difficulties, while the UGC stated the rules prevent caste-based discrimination.
• The new regulations formally include Other Backward Classes (OBCs) within the scope of caste-based discrimination, allowing them to file complaints.
• A university-level Equality Committee with diverse representation must be formed, submitting bi-annual reports to the UGC for transparency.

Why It Matters: Education Minister Pradhan assures fair implementation of new UGC regulations, aiming for equity and preventing discrimination.