BAPSA Students Stage Protest March Against Supreme Court's Stay on UGC Equity Guidelines
Students affiliated with the Birsa Ambedkar Phule Students' Association (BAPSA) organized a significant protest march in Lucknow on Wednesday, voicing strong opposition to the Supreme Court's recent stay on the University Grants Commission (UGC) equity guidelines. The demonstration, which drew attention to ongoing disparities in higher education, commenced from Gate 3 of Lucknow University and proceeded to Parivartan Chowk, symbolizing a call for transformative change in academic institutions.
Concerns Over Vacant Reserved Posts in Central Universities
During the protest, participants highlighted alarming parliamentary data presented in July 2025, which underscored a critical issue: a substantial number of sanctioned posts for OBC, SC, and ST categories in central universities remain unfilled. Specifically, the data revealed that nearly 80 percent of OBC professor positions are vacant, pointing to systemic failures in implementing reservation policies aimed at promoting social equity. Protesters argued that this vacancy rate exacerbates educational inequalities and undermines the principles of inclusive academia.
Key Participants and Demands
The march saw the participation of former IPS officer BP Ashok, who joined the students in solidarity, emphasizing the broader societal implications of the issue. Protesters called for:
- Immediate revocation of the Supreme Court's stay on UGC equity guidelines to ensure fair representation.
- Urgent filling of all vacant OBC, SC, and ST faculty posts to address the shortage of diverse educators.
- Enhanced transparency and accountability in the recruitment processes of central universities.
This protest reflects growing student activism in India, particularly in regions like Uttar Pradesh, where educational reforms are a pressing concern. The BAPSA's actions underscore a demand for equitable access and representation in higher education, aligning with national debates on social justice and academic inclusivity.
