The Delhi High Court is reviewing a petition that seeks permission for a peaceful demonstration at Jantar Mantar against the newly issued University Grants Commission (Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions) Regulations, 2026.
Petition filed by Karni Sena leader
Dr. Raj Shekhawat, president of the Kshatriya Karni Sena, lodged the writ on behalf of his group. He is represented by advocates Himanshu Sharma, Roshan Dhanai and Abhishek Tyagi.
The filing argues that the protest is meant to voice concerns over reservation policies and the fresh regulatory framework. The leader cites a Supreme Court order that put the regulations in abeyance because of ambiguous provisions that could be misused.
He asks the tribunal to withdraw the 2026 regulations entirely. The petition also references the apex court’s finding that the matter raises substantial legal questions warranting a three‑judge bench.
Police rejection and bench remarks
The Delhi Police issued a rejection on August 28, stating that the gathering could not be allowed due to security preparations for the upcoming BRICS Summit, law‑order concerns and traffic management. The summit is slated for September 12‑13 at Bharat Mandapam.
The proposed protest is scheduled for September 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., well before the summit dates. The petition notes that Jantar Mantar and Bharat Mandapam are separate locations and promises no procession toward the summit venue.
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When the matter was listed, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma was on leave, so Justice Amit Mahajan heard the arguments. The bench said it could not grant permission without hearing the police, describing the date as not sacrosanct and suggesting a change could be considered.
The judge said the date could be changed and that permission could not be given without hearing the police.
In response, Shekhawat’s counsel offered to adjust the timing if needed. The bench therefore deferred the decision, scheduling the case for a roster panel on the following Monday.
The case remains unresolved.
The next hearing will determine whether the tribunal issues a fresh, reasoned order within 24 hours, as requested by the petitioner. If granted, the demonstration could proceed without any march toward the summit area.
Until then, both sides await the bench’s final directive.