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The Supreme Court has directed the University Grants Commission (UGC) to finalize new regulations to prevent caste-based discrimination in higher educational institutions within eight weeks. The order came while hearing a public interest litigation initiated by the mothers of Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi—two students from marginalized communities who died by suicide following campus harassment. The petitioners sought effective implementation of the 2012 UGC regulations and stronger measures addressing caste-specific discrimination.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta and Senior Advocate Indira Jaising, appearing for the petitioners, argued that previous judgments dealt with general discrimination but failed to address specific caste-based issues affecting students’ welfare and mental health. Jaising emphasized the urgency, highlighting continued suicides and requested a clear timeline for the UGC to finalize regulations.

The Bench of Justices Surya Kant and Joymalya Bagchi agreed and assured that the process will not be left open-ended, directing the UGC and its expert committee to consider a ten-point note submitted by Jaising. The note calls for a ban on all forms of discrimination, especially in hostels, classrooms, and batches; digitized scholarship systems to prevent harassment; diverse grievance committees with representation from SC/ST/OBC groups; protection mechanisms for complainants including witness protection; mental health counseling; NAAC and social audits; strict enforcement through withdrawal of grants from non-compliant institutions; and preparatory educational support for marginalized students.

The Court expressed faith in the UGC’s willingness to consider all points along with inputs from other stakeholders and kept the broader issue of caste discrimination open for future judicial consideration. It directed immediate notification of final regulations, reinforcing the constitutional commitment to equity, safety, and inclusivity in Indian universities.