The Bihar Assembly experienced heated exchanges on Friday during a debate concerning UGC equity regulations. CPI(ML) Liberation MLA Sandeep Saurabh used a casteist remark, prompting Speaker Prem Kumar to expunge it. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha criticized the remark, stating it reflected the opposition’s mindset.
Casteist Remark Sparks Assembly Debate
The controversy arose as legislators discussed the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) equity regulations. These regulations aim to prevent caste-based discrimination in higher education institutions. The Supreme Court has currently put a stay on these rules.
Saurabh asserted that individuals with a specific caste and mindset opposed the UGC regulations. He argued this opposition led to the Supreme Court’s interim stay. Saurabh urged the Bihar government to push for a parliamentary law on the matter.
UGC Regulations and Opposition
The discussion centered on the UGC’s Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2026. These rules were released last month. They are intended to replace a 2012 anti-discrimination framework.
The new regulations aim to make implementation binding for higher education bodies. Protests and demonstrations have occurred in various locations following their release. Saurabh argued the framework is necessary for eliminating caste prejudice. He believes it will ensure social justice on university campuses.
Assembly Response and Political Fallout
During his speech, Saurabh uttered the casteist word. Speaker Prem Kumar immediately objected. He stated that casteist language is not permissible in the House. He ordered the remark removed from the official record.
Deputy CM Sinha responded to the incident. He claimed Saurabh’s language revealed the opposition’s general attitude. Opposition members reacted strongly to Sinha’s statement.
RJD MLA Alok Mehta countered Sinha. Mehta accused the BJP and its allies of being anti-Dalit. He also stated they oppose reservation policies. Mehta linked this opposition to their stance on the UGC equity regulations.
The Speaker intervened to restore order in the Assembly. The debate concluded with the matter being temporarily settled.