Archive · 2 Aug 2025
NHRC Orders Review of Caste-Based Place Names in India
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is working to remove place names in India that could offend people because of their caste.
The NHRC has asked government departments to report on places with offensive names.
This is to ensure that everyone is treated equally, as such names go against the idea of equality and human dignity in India.
The NHRC also referenced existing laws and court decisions about this issue.
NHRC issued notices to various departments regarding caste-indicative place names.
The NHRC demands Action Taken Reports (ATR) from multiple state and UT departments.
The Commission acted on a complaint highlighting caste-based discrimination.
The NHRC cited legal and administrative references to support its directive.
The deadline for authorities to submit the list and renaming measures report is four weeks.
- Who
- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
- What
- NHRC seeks action on caste-based place names.
- When
- July 28, 2025 (Commission considered complaint). Deadline is four weeks from notice date.
- Where
- Across India, targeting villages, localities, and public spaces.
- Why
- To uphold constitutional values and address caste-based discrimination.
Equality Advocates
N/A
Changing Place Names
Equality Advocates
Advocates for removing offensive caste names.
N/A
N/A
- Commission
- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
- Action Sought
- Action Taken Report (ATR)
- Legal Basis
- Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, SC rulings, etc.
- Target
- Caste-indicative and derogatory names in public spaces
- Deadline
- Four weeks from notice date
