Lucknow, January 27: The controversy surrounding the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) newly introduced ‘Rules for Promoting Equality in Higher Education Institutions, 2026’ continues to intensify. Bhojpuri folk singer Neha Singh Rathore has thrown her weight behind the regulations, urging critics to embrace a more open-minded approach.
In an exclusive conversation, Rathore emphasized the core intent of these rules: fostering equality in society. ‘If the law aims to prevent discrimination and humiliation, what’s the issue?’ she questioned. As a member of the upper caste herself, she drew a powerful analogy: ‘I’m from a savarna background, but there’s no thief in my heart. Laws against theft scare only thieves.’
Rathore pointed to historical precedents like the introduction of reservations and the SC-ST Act, which faced fierce opposition initially but ultimately protected millions from bias. ‘Society evolves, and change makes some happy while others resist,’ she observed. She called for transcending caste barriers, advising detractors to stay liberal and open to new ideas.
‘Constitution grants everyone the right to protest or resign—use it if you must,’ she added. Rathore criticized selective outrage, noting hypocrisy in championing constitutional equality yet ignoring issues like Urdu promotions or irrational practices. ‘These rules benefit society and the nation, regardless of political gains,’ she asserted.
Touching on the ongoing Shankaracharya controversy, Rathore advocated respect for saints. ‘Saints have big hearts; apologize for mistakes. Nobody’s perfect,’ she said, dismissing distractions from the main issue and AI video claims. Her stance highlights a push for progressive reforms in India’s education sector amid polarized debates.
