In Varanasi, Banaras Hindu University and Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth students threatened to intensify protests if regulations aren't withdrawn. AdvertisementNationwide shutdown Bharat bandh call amid escalating protests Multiple organizations called for a Bharat bandh on February 1. Karni Sena leaders said the bandh would be followed by a campaign to seek written assurances from MPs opposing the regulations. AdvertisementLegal challenge SC stays equity regulations Amid the protests, the Supreme Court stayed the University Grants Commission's (UGC) new regulations on Thursday. The court noted that without its intervention, the regulations could lead to societal divisions and dangerous consequences.