The Supreme Court on Tuesday stayed the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new regulations aimed at promoting equity in higher education, which had sparked protests and criticism across the country, especially from members of the general category.

The Court directed all higher education institutions to continue following the UGC Regulations, 2012 until further orders.

It also issued notice to the Centre and the UGC and scheduled the matter for hearing on March 19. The interim stay was granted by invoking the Supreme Court’s powers under Article 142 of the Constitution.

While passing the order, the Bench expressed concern over the wording of the new regulations, noting that it could allow for misuse.

“The language of the regulations suggests that they could be misused,” the Court observed.

Justice Bagchi said the Court supported the idea of creating a fair and inclusive environment but questioned the need for new classifications.

“When the three Es already exist, how does the concept of 2Cs become relevant?” he asked.

The regulations, notified on January 13, require all higher education institutions to set up equity committees with members from OBC, Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. These committees are meant to address discrimination complaints and promote inclusion on campuses.

Following the notification, protests intensified, with critics alleging that the UGC Regulations, 2026 could deepen caste divisions and harm the academic environment. The Supreme Court’s stay will continue until the next hearing