Amid the controversy over the UGC Equity Regulations, Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal criticised the Modi government on Saturday. He said the government’s habit of not consulting stakeholders reflects in every major decision it takes. The UGC Equity Regulations have triggered protests and legal scrutiny across the country.
However, Sibal made it clear that he would not comment directly on the regulations. Since the matter is pending before the Supreme Court, he said it would be inappropriate to express a legal opinion. Still, he spoke from a broader policy perspective.
Sibal stressed that India can progress only when policymakers carry every section of society along. Moreover, he warned that policies which divide society could harm the nation’s future. Diversity, he said, should remain India’s biggest strength.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court stayed the UGC Equity Regulations, calling them vague and potentially dangerous. The court also noted that misuse of the rules cannot be ruled out. It has sought responses from the Centre and the UGC by March 19.
Meanwhile, Sibal questioned how the government handles sensitive reforms. He said that since 2014, the government has rarely shared its views before implementing major changes.
Finally, on the Economic Survey’s remarks about reviewing the RTI Act, Sibal cautioned against weakening transparency. He said restricting RTI would damage democracy and public trust.
