Haryana

• 20 Jan 2025

Haryana Govt Seeks to Remove 'Objectionable' Caste Names

Why in News? 

The Haryana government has urged the Union Government to exclude specific caste names, such as Chura, Bhangi, and Mochi, from the state's Scheduled Castes list. 

• These names are considered objectionable, derogatory, and are often used as insulting remarks. 

Key Points 

• The state argues that these names are "not only objectionable but have lost relevance as well." 
• The move aims to eliminate caste-based prejudices perpetuated through these appellations. 
  • The names sought to be deleted are Chura and Bhangi, which are mentioned at serial no. 2 of the Scheduled Castes (SC) list, and Mochi, which is listed at serial no. 9 of the SC list. 
• When used negatively or as insults, these caste names perpetuate caste prejudice and may result in complaints under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, which prescribes strict penalties. 
• However, to remove these names from the SC list, the Centre must amend the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950 which is the process for adding or removing castes from the SC/ST lists. 

Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989:  

• The SCs and the STs (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, also known as the SC/ST Act 1989, was enacted to safeguard the members of SCs and STs from caste-based discrimination and violence. 
  • Rooted in Articles 15 and 17 of the Indian Constitution, the Act aims to ensure the protection of these marginalised communities and to address the inadequacies of previous laws. 
• The Act builds on the Untouchability (Offences) Act, 1955, and the Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955, which were established to abolish untouchability and discrimination based on caste. 
• The Central Government is authorised to frame rules for the Act’s implementation, while State Governments and Union Territories administer it with central assistance.