UGC Data Reveals Caste Discrimination Complaints In Universities Rise 118% In 5 Years
Complaints related to caste-based discrimination in universities and colleges across India have more than doubled over the past five years, according to data shared by the University Grants Commission (UGC) with a parliamentary panel and the Supreme Court.
The figures show that reported cases increased by 118% between the academic years 2019–20 and 2023–24, rising from 173 complaints to 378.
The data was collected from Equal Opportunity Cells (EOCs) and Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe (SC/ST) Cells functioning in higher education institutions.
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Between 2019–20 and 2023–24, a total of 1,160 complaints were reported from 704 universities and 1,553 colleges. Of these, the UGC marked 1,052 cases as resolved, reflecting a disposal rate of over 90%.
However, the number of pending complaints also rose sharply during the same period, increasing from 18 cases in 2019–20 to 108 in 2023–24.
Year-wise data indicates a steady increase in reported incidents.
Complaints rose to 182 in 2020–21, 186 in 2021–22, and 241 in 2022–23, before seeing a significant jump in 2023–24. The upward trend has drawn attention from academics and policymakers alike.
A senior UGC official, quoted in media reports, said the rise in complaints may be linked to growing awareness among students about grievance redressal mechanisms.
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According to the official, SC/ST Cells and Equal Opportunity Cells have become more visible, encouraging students to come forward and report discrimination.
However, several academics have raised concerns about the high resolution rate claimed by the UGC. Professor N. Sukumar of Delhi University said that many SC/ST Cells function under the direct control of university administrations and lack independent decision-making powers.
He added that since cell members are often nominated by the administration, impartial handling of serious complaints can be affected.
The data was submitted following a Supreme Court directive issued in January 2025. The court had asked the UGC to compile detailed information on caste-based discrimination complaints under the 2012 regulations.
The direction came in connection with a petition filed after the death of Rohith Vemula, a PhD scholar at the University of Hyderabad, which raised serious questions about caste discrimination and institutional accountability.
In an affidavit filed in February 2025, the UGC told the Supreme Court that it had received responses from over 3,500 higher education institutions.
These institutions reported the functioning of thousands of Equal Opportunity and SC/ST Cells and the handling of more than 1,500 complaints.
Recently, the UGC notified draft equity regulations aimed at strengthening grievance redressal systems. The revised framework calls for the setting up of equity committees, equal opportunity centres, round-the-clock helplines and online complaint platforms in universities and colleges.
The move follows criticism that earlier draft rules weakened existing safeguards meant to protect students from discrimination.
