Tension flared outside the Allahabad High Court on Wednesday (28/01/2026) as a group of lawyers staged a protest against the University Grants Commission’s newly notified anti-discrimination regulations. Calling the rules “divisive in nature,” the lawyers demanded that the UGC withdraw them within 48 hours, warning of a wider public agitation if their demand is ignored.
The protest took place at Ambedkar Crossing, close to the High Court premises, drawing attention from advocates, litigants, and passersby alike.
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Background of the Case
The protest centres around the UGC’s Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026 (PEHEIR). The regulations were introduced to curb discrimination in universities and colleges across the country.
Under the new framework, higher educational institutions are required to:
- Set up anti-discrimination cells
- Act against discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, race, place of birth, or disability
- Ensure safeguards for SC, ST, OBC, EWS students, and persons with disabilities
The UGC has described the move as part of its effort to create inclusive and safe campuses.
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However, the regulations have triggered strong opposition from sections of the legal fraternity and general category groups, who argue that the rules could be misused and may disturb social balance.
What Happened at the Protest
On Wednesday morning, lawyers gathered at Ambedkar Crossing near the Allahabad High Court and raised slogans against the UGC regulations. In a symbolic act of protest, a copy of the PEHEIR guidelines was set on fire.
Former Joint Secretary of the High Court Bar Association, Ashutosh Tiwari, led the demonstration. Addressing the gathering, he accused the UGC of introducing rules that could deepen divisions instead of promoting harmony on campuses.
“The regulation is being portrayed as progressive, but in reality, it risks creating new fault lines in society,” he said.
The protesters alleged that the rules disproportionately target certain sections while ignoring concerns of students from unreserved categories.
Court-Linked Reaction and Lawyers’ Stand
Although the matter is not yet before the court, the protest by lawyers has given the issue a strong legal and political dimension.
Ashutosh Tiwari issued a clear warning to the authorities, saying,
“Public resentment is already high across the country. If this regulation is not withdrawn within 48 hours, a public movement will be launched, and the government alone will be responsible.”
The protesting lawyers argued that while discrimination must be addressed, any policy should ensure equal protection for all students without creating a sense of exclusion.
They also expressed concern that the vague wording of the regulations could lead to selective action and unnecessary litigation within educational institutions.
UGC’s Position and the Growing Debate
The UGC has maintained that the PEHEIR 2026 regulations are aimed at ensuring dignity, equality, and safety for vulnerable groups in higher education. According to the commission, the move aligns with constitutional values and existing social justice policies.
However, critics insist that the regulations need wider consultation and clearer safeguards to prevent misuse. They argue that equity should not come at the cost of fairness or unity.
The protest at Allahabad has now added momentum to the national debate, with similar concerns being echoed in legal and academic circles elsewhere.
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Decision and Current Status
As of now, the UGC has not issued any response to the protest or the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the lawyers. The demonstrators have reiterated that they will intensify their agitation if their demands are not addressed within the stipulated time.
The matter remains unresolved, with tensions continuing over the future of the PEHEIR 2026 regulations.
Case Title: Lawyers’ Protest Against UGC PEHEIR 2026
