Context:

Recently, the University Grants Commission (UGC) mandated the formation of Equity Committees in all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) through the newly notified University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026.

Background:

• • • The UGC’s mandate for Equity Committees arises from persistent concerns over discrimination in higher education, particularly caste- and gender-based bias, which have adversely affected student safety, mental well-being, and academic outcomes. High-profile cases such as Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi highlighted serious gaps in grievance redressal mechanisms and institutional accountability.
    • In response, the Supreme Court of India directed the UGC to frame regulations ensuring time-bound complaint resolution, protection of complainants, and the creation of inclusive campus environments. The 2026 Regulations formalise these directives through the establishment of Equal Opportunity Centres (EOCs) and Equity Committees, with clearly defined roles, representation norms, and enforcement mechanisms, aligning institutional practices with constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination.

Key Features of the New Regulations:

• • • Equity Committees and Equal Opportunity Centres
      • Every HEI (universities, colleges, and deemed-to-be universities) must establish an Equal Opportunity Centre (EOC) and an Equity Committee.
      • These bodies will serve as the primary institutional mechanisms for addressing grievances related to discriminatory conduct.
    • Composition and Representation
      • Equity Committees are to be constituted by the head of the institution, who will act as the Chairperson.
      • Membership will include faculty members, non-teaching staff, civil society representatives, and student members.
      • Adequate representation is mandated for socially vulnerable groups, including:
        • Scheduled Castes (SCs)
        • Scheduled Tribes (STs)
        • Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
        • Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
        • Women
    • Complaint Redressal and Response Mechanism
      • Institutions must operate 24×7 equity helplines and online portals for reporting discrimination.
      • Upon receipt of a complaint:
        • The Equity Committee must meet within 24 hours.
        • The inquiry must be completed within 15 working days.
      • The recommended action must be taken by the head of the institution within the subsequent seven days.
      • Committees are also responsible for ensuring protection of complainants and witnesses from retaliation.
    • Compliance and Penalties
      • Non-compliance with the regulations may result in institutions being barred from UGC schemes, central grants, academic programmes, or even withdrawal of recognition.
      • The UGC will constitute a national-level monitoring committee to oversee implementation and recommend preventive measures.

Significance and Policy Implications:

• • • Promotion of Inclusive Education: The regulations seek to operationalise constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination under Articles 14, 15, and 21. Mandatory representation of marginalised communities and women strengthens social justice mechanisms within higher education institutions.
    • Institutional Accountability: Clearly defined responsibilities and strict timelines enhance institutional accountability and governance.
    • Strengthening Grievance Redressal: The inclusion of round-the-clock helplines and digital platforms improves accessibility, transparency, and effectiveness of grievance redressal systems.

Conclusion:

The UGC’s mandate on Equity Committees represents a significant structural reform aimed at making higher education institutions in India more inclusive, equitable, and accountable. By institutionalising anti-discrimination safeguards, strengthening grievance redressal, and enforcing compliance, the 2026 Regulations seek to bridge long-standing policy gaps and foster safer, fairer, and more inclusive campus environments, in line with constitutional and educational objectives.