Supreme Court to Hear Plea Against UGC Regulations on Caste Discrimination

• The Supreme Court agreed to list a plea challenging UGC's new regulations on equity in higher education.
• The plea argues the regulations adopt a non-inclusionary definition of caste-based discrimination, excluding general category individuals.
• Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi noted the urgency and agreed to list the matter.
• The new regulations, notified on January 13, mandate 'equity committees' in higher education institutions.
• These committees must include representatives from OBC, SC, ST, persons with disabilities, and women, replacing the 2012 advisory rules.

Why It Matters: Supreme Court will review UGC regulations challenged for narrow caste discrimination definition.