“Educational Institutions Will Become Centres of Controversy”: Bar Council Chairman Flags Concerns Over New UGC Regulations
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New Delhi | January 28 :
BJP Rajya Sabha MP and Chairman of the Bar Council of India, Manan Kumar Mishra, on Tuesday criticised the new regulations issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to curb caste-based discrimination in colleges and universities.
According to Mishra, the revised rules could create unnecessary disputes. As a result, he warned that educational institutions may turn into centres of controversy.
Concerns Over Possible Misuse
Speaking to ANI, Mishra said it is not advisable to involve educational institutions in avoidable controversies.
Moreover, he cautioned that even a petty fight between students could lead to serious complaints.
In his view, such complaints may negatively impact a student’s future.
Therefore, he said the issue requires careful reconsideration.
Existing Laws Already in Place
Notably, Mishra pointed out that strict laws already exist to deal with ragging and misconduct.
However, he questioned the need for additional regulations at this stage.
Accordingly, he urged policymakers to assess the long-term impact of the new framework on campus harmony.
Call for Review of UGC Regulations
Furthermore, Mishra appealed to the UGC to review the rules.
At the same time, he asked the government to examine whether the regulations could be misused.
Meanwhile, he stressed that students, irrespective of caste, come to educational institutions to study and build their future.
Background of the New Rules
Earlier this month, the UGC notified revised regulations on January 13, updating its 2012 framework to address caste-based discrimination.
Under the new rules, institutions must form special committees and set up helplines.
In particular, the focus is on addressing complaints from SC, ST, and OBC students.
Mixed Reactions From Stakeholders
Meanwhile, sections of general category students have raised concerns.
They argue that the framework could lead to discrimination against them.
In response, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured that the law would not be misused.
Speaking to reporters, he said there would be no discrimination in implementation.
Therefore, the government aims to ensure fairness and balance in enforcing the regulations.
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