New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has termed the recent controversies surrounding the UGC equity regulations and an NCERT textbook on judicial corruption as “avoidable”.

Speaking at a session on 'Teaching India @100' at the Times Now Summit, Pradhan said the government does not endorse discrimination in any form and remains committed to constitutional principles.

“I accept that they were avoidable, especially the way they were presented. The matter related to UGC is sub judice before the Supreme Court, so I cannot comment further,” he said, adding that the government will act in accordance with the court's directions.

On the NCERT issue, Pradhan said steps are being taken following the court's guidance, including the preparation of a revised chapter under supervision. He noted that a three-member committee led by former Supreme Court judge Justice Indu Malhotra has been constituted for the purpose.

Earlier this month, NCERT apologised for the controversial content and withdrew the Class 8 social science textbook. The UGC regulations, notified in January to address discrimination, were later stayed by the Supreme Court.