“Revoke UGC’s Black Law”: Manoj Muntashir Appeals to PM Modi

Lyricist, poet, dialogue writer, and screenwriter Manoj Muntashir has made a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the ongoing UGC controversy. In a 39-second video shared on social media, he urged the PM to reconsider and revoke the recently introduced UGC regulations, calling them a threat to unity and fairness in the country.

Sharing the video on X at 8:11 AM on 28 January, Muntashir captioned it: “A humble request to respected Shri Narendra Modi Ji.” In the clip, he said: “If a plant in a garden remains small, it doesn’t mean that, in the name of protection and equality, other plants should be cut down. The page of the past is closed. In the 21st century, it is time to bid farewell to caste divisions.”

He added, “I fold my hands and appeal to you on behalf of 1.4 billion citizens. Just to make one child happy, do not unfairly harm another. Your love and care belong equally to all of us. Revoke the UGC’s black law and protect our unity. If caste prevails, India loses.”

What is the UGC Controversy?
The University Grants Commission (UGC) recently issued a rule mandating that both government and private universities form an Equity Cell to address complaints related to discrimination based on religion, caste, race, gender, birthplace, or disability. However, students under the general quota have been excluded from this provision, sparking protests. Critics argue that the rule could be misused against them with false allegations, triggering widespread debate.