Thu Feb 05 22:00:10 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Caste-Based Discrimination Allegations Rock Banaras Hindu University, Sparking Political Firestorm

The Story:

A postgraduate student at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi, Adarsh Kumar, has alleged a physical attack by a group of students, purportedly linked to his support of the 2026 University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations aimed at preventing caste-based discrimination on campuses. This incident occurred on February 3, 2026, coinciding with a protest march by the SC/ST/OBC Ekta Manch demanding the immediate implementation of the UGC regulations. The opposition party is accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of fostering an environment that makes marginalized communities vulnerable to such attacks. The police have registered complaints from both sides and have initiated an investigation.

Key Points:

  • Adarsh Kumar, a BHU student, alleges physical assault related to his support for 2026 UGC regulations against caste-based discrimination.
  • The alleged attack occurred on February 3, 2026, the same day as a protest supporting the UGC regulations.
  • The FIR does not mention UGC regulation-linked hostility, though Kumar alleges that the matter took an ugly turn over a WhatsApp group discussion on the regulations.
  • The SC/ST/OBC Ekta Manch organized a march demanding the implementation of the UGC regulations.
  • Opposition parties are accusing the BJP of deliberately creating a hostile environment for marginalized students.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the continued sensitivity and potential for conflict surrounding caste-related issues in Indian higher education.
  • The timing of the alleged attack, coinciding with a pro-UGC regulation protest, suggests a possible link to differing opinions on the matter.
  • The opposition’s accusations against the ruling party indicate the politicization of the issue.
  • The event underscores the potential for UGC regulations on caste-based discrimination to become a contentious issue in Indian politics and society.

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