Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati has passionately defended the University Grants Commission’s mandate for equity committees in colleges and universities, attributing resistance from general category quarters to outright casteist thinking. Posting on X, she framed the controversy as a battle against persistent biases in higher education.
At the heart of the storm is the UGC’s January 13 notification under the ‘Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulation 2026’. It compels all institutions to set up committees addressing discrimination across caste, religion, sex, origin, disability, and other factors. Offenders face tough repercussions, from academic penalties to institutional shutdowns.
‘Opposition from caste-biased elements in the general category is wholly inappropriate,’ Mayawati declared, viewing the rules as essential for true equality on campuses.
Critiquing the execution, she advocated for broader consultations prior to enforcement. ‘Taking all parties on board would avert tensions and ensure smoother adoption,’ she suggested to governments and regulators.
Addressing Dalits and OBCs directly, Mayawati warned against ‘greedy, bought-out leaders’ stoking fires for political gain. ‘Stay alert to their despicable games,’ she implored.
Designed to root out prejudice, these committees promise rigorous complaint handling and accountability. Yet, they’ve ignited a firestorm online, with general category users voicing fears of targeted harassment. Mayawati’s rebuttal spotlights how caste dynamics continue to influence policy battles in academia.