Varanasi: Students of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on Tuesday staged a sit-in protest on the main campus, demanding effective implementation of the University Grants Commission (UGC) equity and inclusion regulations. The protest was organised by student groups who accused the administration of failing to establish mandated bodies and sensitisation mechanisms to ensure social justice and equal opportunities on campus.

Demand for Equal Opportunity Bodies

Protesting students called for the immediate formation of Equal Opportunity Cells and grievance redressal committees as prescribed under UGC guidelines. They stated that these bodies are essential to address issues related to discrimination, marginalisation and unequal treatment of students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

According to the protesters, the absence of functional equity committees has left students without a proper platform to report and resolve complaints.

Call for Sensitisation and Awareness Programmes

Another major demand raised during the protest was the introduction of regular sensitisation and awareness programmes on social equity and inclusion. Students said that faculty members, administrative staff and students should be trained to follow UGC norms related to diversity, dignity and non-discrimination.

They also sought workshops and orientation sessions for freshers to promote a respectful and inclusive campus environment.

Allegations Against University Administration

Student representatives alleged that despite repeated appeals and written complaints, the university administration had not taken concrete steps to enforce the UGC regulations. They claimed that the lack of institutional mechanisms had resulted in continued cases of bias and exclusion within the campus community.

Placards and slogans during the sit-in highlighted demands for accountability and transparency from the authorities.

University Assures Review of Demands

University officials acknowledged the protest and said that the administration would review the students’ demands. A senior BHU official stated that existing committees were being restructured and that steps would be taken to strengthen equity-related initiatives in accordance with UGC norms.

The administration also appealed to students to maintain peace and resolve the issue through dialogue.

Protest Remains Peaceful

The sit-in protest remained peaceful throughout the day, with students gathering near key administrative buildings. No disruption to academic activities was reported, though several classes witnessed low attendance as students participated in the demonstration.

Student leaders said they would continue their agitation if their demands were not addressed within a stipulated time.

  BHU Students Protest, UGC Equity Regulations