CJI Flags Risk of Social Division as Supreme Court Questions UGC’s New Anti-Discrimination RulesThe Supreme Court raised serious concerns over UGC’s new anti-discrimination rules, questioning caste-specific provisions, the idea of separate hostels, and the exclusion of ragging, while stressing the need for inclusive, equality-based regulations aligned with the Constitution. Supreme Court stays UGC’s new rules, flags risk of social division and questions equality under constitutionCJI’s Strong Reaction to Separate Hostel ProposalA key moment during the hearing came when a proposal suggesting separate hostels for students of different castes was mentioned. CJI Surya Kant recalled that students from all castes earlier lived together in hostels, fostering understanding and social integration. ExplainedWhat Are the New UGC Rules? On January 13, the UGC introduced the UGC (Equity) Regulations, 2026, aimed at eliminating caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions.