Agnihotri’s Feb 6 Ultimatum: SC/ST Act Repeal or Govt Ousted

February 2, 2026

Varanasi / Kanpur, India: Suspended Bareilly City Magistrate Alankar Agnihotri has given a strict deadline of February 6, 2026, to the Central Government to withdraw the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, commonly called the SC/ST Act or risk what he calls the “uprooting” of the government.

Demand to Repeal the SC/ST Act

Agnihotri, who has been in the public eye since resigning from his PCS post amid contention over UGC regulations and caste-based issues, described the SC/ST Act as a “black law” and claimed it is being misused in many cases. He said the government must remove it by February 6 to avoid nationwide unrest.

Threat of Government “Uprooting”

He further threatened symbolic action against the Central Government if his demands are not met by the deadline, using strong rhetoric about the government being “rooted out.” These comments have stirred debate, though no official response from the Centre has been reported yet.

Context: UGC Rules & Wider Protests

Agnihotri’s stance follows his protest against new University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations earlier in January, which led to his resignation and subsequent suspension by the Uttar Pradesh government. While the Supreme Court has stayed the UGC rules, Agnihotri has now shifted focus to the SC/ST Act as his primary grievance.

Reactions and Next Steps

Supporters of Agnihotri view his ultimatum as a rallying point for broader opposition, while critics warn that threats against the law and the government could escalate social tensions. It remains to be seen whether his call will gain wider backing or prompt official action before the February 6 deadline.