'Still Studying The UGC Act': Brij Bhushan Says He Will Speak Only After Full Review

Gonda: BJP leader and former Kaiserganj MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh on Monday triggered a fresh political debate with his remarks on the implementation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) 2026.

The UGC on January 15 notified the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 to promote equality in higher education institutions.

Speaking at an event in Uttar Pradesh, the BJP leader said that he is closely studying the UGC Act and will share his views only after completing a detailed review. 

His comments came at a time when the new UGC framework is already drawing reactions from teachers’ bodies and political groups.

What exactly did Brij Bhushan say?

Responding to media questions regarding his views on the UGC Act, Brij Bhushan said he is currently conducting an in-depth study of the UGC act.

And he further said that he will publicly present his views in a clear and balanced manner once he completes his study on the Act.

What is the UGC law?

The UGC on January 15 notified the Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 and replaced the older 2012 framework.

The main objective of the new framework is to curb caste-based discrimination among students in universities, colleges, and other higher education institutions. The new rules offer a much stricter system to deal with caste discrimination on campuses.

The discrimination can be on the basis of religion, race, gender, place of birth, caste, or disability.

The UGC introduced the new rules to focus on creating more safer and respectful academic spaces, where students and teachers will get better opportunities regardless of their background.

This move has triggered protests and objections from student groups and social organisations who argue that the rules raise concerns over representation, procedural fairness, and constitutional equality.

What are the important rules under UGC Bill 2026?

• Inclusion of Other Backwards Classes (OBCs) in the protection framework.
• Every higher education institution must set up equal opportunity centres.
• Form equity committee in every institution.
• Action on complaints within 24 hours.
• Run a 24/7 helpline and online complaint portal.
• Will be held direct responsible for any case of discrimination.

The government is calling this move a 'historic step' to eliminate caste-based discrimination on campuses, while several organisations are terming it unconstitutional and a conspiracy against the 'upper castes'. The controversy has escalated to such an extent that the matter has now reached the Supreme Court.