Supreme Court Stays UGC Regulations: Reactions from UP Leaders Including Keshav Prasad Maurya and Akhilesh Yadav

Lucknow: The Supreme Court has temporarily stayed the new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, citing concerns over potential misuse. The Court has issued notices to the central government and UGC, seeking responses by March 19, 2026, the date for the next hearing on petitions challenging the rules. The decision comes amid widespread protests against the new UGC guidelines.

Several political leaders in Uttar Pradesh have reacted to the Supreme Court’s order:

• Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya welcomed the ruling, stating, “When the Supreme Court delivers a judgment, it is always a matter of satisfaction. Any decision of the apex court is a reason for joy.”
• Minister Omprakash Rajbhar emphasized, “Since the day the UGC regulations came into force, I have maintained that the Supreme Court’s doors are open to everyone. If there is any flaw in the law, it must be addressed. The Supreme Court’s order is now out, and no one can question it. Both the state and central governments are committed to upholding the Constitution. The Education Ministry has also stated that if there are objections, a committee will be formed and amendments made wherever possible.”
• Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav tweeted his view, saying, “True justice ensures that no one suffers injustice. The honorable court ensures this. The language of the law should be clear, and so should the intent. It is not only about regulations but also about intent—no one should be oppressed, and no one should be wronged.”
• Minister Sanjay Nishad also welcomed the Supreme Court’s stay, stating, “The order is to stay the regulations, not to reject the law. From the beginning, we have said that no innocent person should be punished and no guilty person should escape. Many laws have been misused, so safeguards should also be provided for children from all communities.”

The Supreme Court’s interim stay reflects the judiciary’s caution in ensuring that the UGC rules are applied fairly, protecting both institutions and students from potential misuse, while balancing social equity and merit.