New Delhi’s political circles are buzzing after the Supreme Court halted the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) controversial new regulations on Thursday. Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait has sharply criticized the move, predicting a surge in lawsuits and deepened social divisions.
Speaking exclusively to IANS, Tikait highlighted the intense backlash over the past three days that prompted the court’s intervention. ‘The Supreme Court has taken note and ordered all documents to be submitted. We’ll see if there are flaws, amendments needed, or a full stay,’ he said.
Tikait emphasized the need for dialogue with affected communities, particularly castes feeling threatened by the rules. ‘The country risks fracturing along caste lines if controversies persist. Uniting everyone during crises will become impossible,’ he warned, drawing parallels to past disputes.
He slammed the regulations as detrimental, arguing they benefit the government indirectly. ‘If dissatisfied groups boycott votes or opt for NOTA, it only strengthens the ruling party. Governments pursue self-serving agendas regardless,’ Tikait noted.
Accusing the administration of fostering caste divisions to fuel litigation, Tikait said educated groups could exploit loopholes against less privileged ones like SC communities. ‘Constitutional rights demand legal recourse, but this will lead to endless court battles,’ he asserted.
The Supreme Court, hearing petitions challenging the UGC’s new framework, imposed an immediate stay. It mandated adherence to the 2012 regulations until the next hearing on March 19. This decision underscores growing concerns over higher education reforms amid fears of eroding affirmative action safeguards.
