UGC directs HEIs to set up equal opportunity, SC, ST cells

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a circular directing all Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to establish Equal Opportunity Cells (EOCs) and SC/ST Cells. This initiative aims to ensure the effective and transparent redressal of grievances of disadvantaged groups.

As per the circular, the establishment of EOCs and SC/ST cells will address challenges faced by disadvantaged groups, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC – non-creamy layer), women, minorities, and differently-abled individuals.

The UGC has issued this directive following the Supreme Court’s order in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to caste-based discrimination in educational institutions in the country. As per the circular, the commission has been instructed to collect and submit data from all HEIs concerning the implementation of the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Educational Institutions) Regulations, 2012.

“You may also be aware that the UGC has recommended the establishment of Equal Opportunity Cells (EOCs) in all HEIs to address disparities, support marginalized communities and sensitize about their rights envisioned in the Constitution,” the official circular read.

HEIs directed to submit information by January 20, 2025

Following the court’s order, the UGC is preparing a database of important aspects, which are crucial to the protection of the rights and interests of the disadvantaged groups and addressing their complaints and grievances.

“To assist this initiative, the UGC is preparing a database of important aspects, which are crucial to the protection of the rights and interests of the Disadvantaged groups and addressing their complaints and grievances,” the circular further read.

The commission has asked the HEIs to submit the requisite information in the prescribed format by January 20, 2025, through a Google form link attached to the official circular.

UGC sought details on discrimination complaint committee

The UGC has asked for information from HEIs regarding the establishment of an Equal Opportunity Cell (EOC) and SC/ST Cell, including the year of establishment, coordinator/nodal officer details, and contact information. It also asked institutions to confirm if they have constituted a committee to address discrimination complaints from SC/ST/OBC students, teachers, and staff, and whether a dedicated webpage for caste-based complaints exists.

Additionally, UGC has asked about the maintenance of a complaint register, the number of complaints received from 2019 to 2024, and if any complaints led to suicidal incidents during these years.