The UGC had earlier notified the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026 on January 13, replacing its 2012 anti-discrimination framework. The new regulations mandating all higher education institutions to form "equity committees" to look into discrimination complaints and promote equity were notified on January 13. The UGC had earlier notified the University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026 on January 13, replacing its 2012 anti-discrimination framework. The new rules seek to address discrimination, including caste-based bias, in higher education institutions by making equity provisions enforceable governance norms. Also read | What are the UGC equity regulations 2026 and why are they controversial?