Assam: SFI stages protest over UGC Equity Bill, slams arrest of leaders

Guwahati: The Students’ Federation of India (SFI) on Friday staged a symbolic protest in front of Nehru Park near Cotton University, Guwahati. The student body demanded effective implementation of the UGC (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations Bill, 2026.

At the same time, it protested the arrest of its central leadership.

The SFI Assam State Committee said the protest aimed to push for stronger safeguards against discrimination in educational institutions. It stressed the need for concrete measures to ensure equity and inclusion on campuses.

According to the organization, complaints of caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions have risen sharply over the past decade. Therefore, it asserted that authorities must implement the newly introduced regulations in a strong and effective manner.

Meanwhile, the student body condemned the arrest of SFI All India president Adarsh M Saji and joint secretary Aishe Ghosh. The Delhi Police also detained more than 100 students during a protest on February 5 in front of the Union Ministry of Education. The protesters had demanded the implementation of the Bill. SFI described the police action as undemocratic. It also termed the move an attempt to suppress democratic student movements.

“We are deeply concerned about incidents of discrimination and violence faced by students from the Northeast, Dalit communities and other marginalized sections across the country,” the organization said. It added that several students have lost their lives following alleged discrimination and violence.

Furthermore, the organization criticized recent political developments and public statements. It alleged that policies such as the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and delays in granting ST status to certain communities reflect attempts to undermine the country’s diversity. In addition, it pointed to incidents of violence and intimidation in educational spaces.

SFI leaders Dewan Iptikar Hussain and Rajdeep Mahanta said the protest formed part of a broader campaign. They said the organization aims to mobilize students in Assam on issues of equality, dignity and democratic rights in education.