UGC Act LIVE: Major Update on Controversial Equity Law, Government May Form High-Level Committee; Supreme Court Hearing Today

UGC Act 2026 LIVE Updates: The newly introduced UGC Equity Act 2026 has sparked widespread protests across India. Demonstrations are ongoing in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and several other states, with critics calling the law one-sided in addressing caste-based discrimination.

In a dramatic move, Bareilly’s City Magistrate, Anlakar Agnihotri, resigned in protest, labeling the Act as a “black law.” Meanwhile, upper-caste organizations have threatened to intensify their agitation. Following continuous protests since January 13, the UGC is expected to issue clarifications soon. The government may also set up a high-level committee comprising academics, officials, and UGC representatives to review the matter.

Live Updates:

12:19 PM, Jan 29: Supreme Court Hearing on UGC Act
The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the case concerning UGC regulations today. Listed as Case No. 34 on the cause list, the hearing is likely to begin after 11:30 AM.

12:12 PM, Jan 29: What is UGC?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Education, Government of India. It promotes and coordinates university education, sets and maintains standards in teaching, examinations, and research, and provides grants to eligible universities and colleges under the UGC Act of 1956. The Commission also advises the central and state governments on higher education development.

11:52 AM, Jan 29: Resignation in Bareilly
In protest against the UGC Equity Act 2026, Bareilly’s City Magistrate Anlakar Agnihotri resigned, calling the law “unjust.” Upper-caste groups have also warned of intensifying their protests.

11:52 AM, Jan 29: Protests Across India
The UGC Act 2026 is facing opposition nationwide, with particularly intense demonstrations in New Delhi, Meerut, Hapur, Saharanpur, Alwar, and Madhubani.

11:52 AM, Jan 29: Previous 2012 Regulations
The earlier UGC rule, “Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations 2012,” was the first official guideline to prevent discrimination in universities and colleges. However, it did not include OBCs. The inclusion of OBCs in the 2026 Act has made the regulations even more controversial. According to the Ministry of Education, SC, ST, and OBC students now account for 61% of total enrollments.

11:51 AM, Jan 29: New UGC Guidelines 2026
The Act mandates the establishment of an Equal Opportunity Centre (EOC) in every institution to handle discrimination complaints and support disadvantaged groups. Universities and colleges are required to set up EOCs, Equity Committees, complaint redressal systems, and 24/7 helplines to address grievances of SC, ST, and OBC students.

11:51 AM, Jan 29: UGC Act 2026 Overview
The University Grants Commission implemented the “Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations 2026” on January 13, 2026, replacing the 2012 regulations. Also known as the Equity Act 2026, it claims to promote equality in higher education and prevent discrimination based on religion, caste, gender, place of birth, disability, and other factors.