Torch rally in Osmania University for implementation of UGC Equity Regulations

The All India OBC Students Association led a torch rally demanding the immediate implementation of the newly introduced UGC Equity Regulations across all higher educational institutions, at Osmania University on Friday.

Its leader Kiran Kumar said that the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Union Government must present strong arguments before the Supreme Court to ensure that the stay imposed on the Equity Regulations is lifted. He reiterated that the regulations were introduced to curb caste discrimination against Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in higher educational institutions. Blocking their implementation, he argued, undermines constitutional principles and social justice.

State general secretary Nookala Madhu Yadav alleged that similar to the resistance witnessed during the implementation of OBC reservations based on the Mandal Commission recommendations, certain dominant groups are now attempting to mislead the judiciary and stall progressive reforms.

Other leaders from Osmania University highlighted instances of caste discrimination on campuses and called for the immediate constitution of Equity Committees in all institutions. Several student leaders and representatives from various organisations participated, expressing solidarity for safeguarding the rights of marginalised students.