Archive · 14 Aug 2025
Odisha Government Forbids 'Harijan' Term in Official Use
The Odisha government has decided to stop using the word 'harijan' in any official communication.
This includes all government offices, schools, and public organizations.
Instead, they want everyone to use the term 'Scheduled Caste' or the equivalent in local languages.
This decision is based on earlier rules from the Odisha Human Rights Commission and the central government.
They want to be respectful and ensure the word 'harijan' is not used on certificates, documents, or any official matter.
Everyone must update their records to follow this rule.
Odisha government mandates the removal of 'harijan' from official use.
The directive covers all departments, public bodies, and educational institutions.
Officials should replace 'harijan' with 'Scheduled Caste' or its regional equivalents.
The action follows Odisha Human Rights Commission guidelines and central government directives.
Compliance reports are required from all concerned authorities.
- Who
- Odisha government
- What
- Odisha government banned the use of the word 'harijan' in official communications.
- When
- The order was issued on August 12, though the news was published on Wednesday.
- Where
- Odisha
- Why
- To adhere to guidelines and show respect for scheduled castes.
- Affected Term
- 'harijan'
- Alternative Terms
- 'Scheduled Caste', 'anusuchita jati'
- Issued By
- Odisha government
- Directive Scope
- All official communications
- Compliance Required From
- All departments, public, and educational institutes
- Reference
- Article 341 of the Constitution
