Now Reading: Jantar-Mantar sees thousands protest against UGC equity rules, reservation
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Jantar-Mantar sees thousands protest against UGC equity rules, reservation
Thousands of people gathered at Delhi's Jantar-Mantar on Friday to protest against the University Grants Commission (UGC) equity rules and the current reservation system. The protesters, carrying banners, posters and saffron flags, demanded a change in the caste-based reservation policy, arguing that benefits should reach those who genuinely need them. Many called for economic status to be made the basis for reservation.
Some protesters demanded the withdrawal of the SC/ST Act, alleging its misuse. The demonstration also saw opposition to the UGC equity rules, which have now been suspended. Sudhir Chauhan of the Bharatiya Kisan Parishad said the rules created discrimination among students. Deepraj Rawal of the Akhil Bharatiya Kshatriya Mahasabha argued that government assistance should be based on economic need, not caste.
Several protesters demanded the implementation of a 'creamy layer' provision in SC, ST and OBC quotas and a review of the current system. While Delhi Police initially issued a notice asking protesters to remain peaceful, permission for the protest was later granted. Security was tightened with barricades and deployment of RAF and ITBP personnel. The protesters warned of expanding the agitation if their demands are not addressed.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The protest at Jantar-Mantar revives a recurring demand to shift reservation from caste to economic criteria, a debate that has intensified since the 2019 introduction of the 10% EWS quota. While the Supreme Court has upheld caste as the basis for reservation, it has also allowed the 'creamy layer' exclusion for OBCs. A similar demand from the Patidar community in Gujarat in 2015-16 led to widespread violence. The key question is whether political parties will see electoral value in revisiting reservation policy, especially with the next Lok Sabha elections due in 2029. The immediate signal to watch is the government's response, or lack of one, in the coming weeks.
Source: aajtak.in
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above. Methodology and corrections.
