On April 25, 2025, the Supreme Court of India approved the finalization and notification of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations 2025. These regulations are designed to address and prevent caste-based discrimination, ragging, and sexual harassment in higher education institutions across the country.

The court’s decision comes in response to public interest litigations filed by the mothers of Rohith Vemula and Payal Tadvi, both of whom tragically died by suicide following alleged caste-based harassment. While acknowledging concerns raised by student representatives, the Supreme Court emphasized that the regulations have the potential to benefit a large number of students.

Justice Surya Kant, presiding over the case, noted that these regulations would serve as an interim measure to protect vulnerable students until the National Task Force on student suicides, established by the court, submits its recommendations.

The UGC is now expected to proceed with the formal notification of these regulations, implementing a framework aimed at fostering safer and more inclusive environments within universities and colleges.

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