Amid growing debate over the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) newly notified regulations, Jyotirmath Shankaracharya Avimukteshwarananda Saraswati has strongly opposed the move, stating that injustice is committed by individuals, not by caste. He warned that the new rules could create divisions within society and may ultimately harm Hinduism.

Reacting to the UGC Regulations on Promotion of Equality in Higher Education Institutions, 2026, the Shankaracharya said that every caste has both virtuous and flawed individuals. “You are pitting one caste against another. This is a very thoughtless step,” he remarked, urging the government to withdraw the regulations immediately.

What Are the New UGC Regulations?

The University Grants Commission, a statutory body under the Union Ministry of Education, has introduced a new framework aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination in colleges and universities across India. The regulations outline procedures to identify, report, and respond to alleged discrimination against students, faculty members, and staff on campuses nationwide.

However, critics argue that the rules could deepen social divisions rather than promote harmony.

City Magistrate Resigns in Protest

The controversy intensified after City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri resigned in protest against the UGC regulations. He shared a photograph on social media standing outside his residence holding a poster that read, “UGC Rollback, Take Back the Black Law.”

Agnihotri alleged that the regulations would adversely affect students from the general category and termed the move an insult to Shankaracharya and Sanatan Dharma. His poster also included strong political slogans calling for a boycott of the BJP and Brahmin MPs and MLAs.

Government’s Stand on the Matter

According to government sources, an inquiry may be initiated into Agnihotri’s actions, and disciplinary action could follow. Agnihotri is currently on strike and has expressed a desire to meet the District Magistrate. He is also considering approaching the High Court.

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Alok Ranjan weighed in on the issue, stating that once an officer resigns, they cannot be suspended, as the government must first accept the resignation.

Background of the Shankaracharya Controversy

The recent controversy involving the Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath began earlier this year when Uttar Pradesh Police allegedly stopped him from taking a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during Mauni Amavasya on January 18, sparking widespread criticism and protests.

The UGC regulations have now become a focal point of a broader debate involving education policy, social equality, religious sentiment, and administrative conduct.