Panel Recommends Changing Caste Names Used as Slurs: Nagamohan Das Report

Quick Summary:

• Justice H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission Report: The commission submitted recommendations on internal reservation for 101 Scheduled Castes in Karnataka.
• Caste Name change Proposal: Suggested writng to the Center to allow certain castes (e.g., Ghantichor, Halalkhor, Holeya) to change their names due to misuse as cuss words.
• Ancient Context: Some caste identities were criminalized by the British under laws like the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871.
• Requests from Communities: Communities like Banjaras have requested removal of derogatory synonyms (Sugali and Sukali).
• caste Certificate misuse: Issues identified with misuse in Beda Jangama and Buduga Jangama caste certifications. Artificial growth in their population by 123% flagged across 16 districts.
• Recommendation for Scientific study: Advocated anthropological studies to verify genuine community membership.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The Justice H.N. Nagamohan Das Commission’s recommendations highlight deep-seated struggles with caste identity and systemic legacies, particularly names carrying stigma from historical contexts like British-era laws. The proposal for name change signifies an attempt at cultural restoration while addressing psychological impacts on affected communities.

Artificial inflation of numbers within certain castes underscores concerns about misuse of affirmative action policies intended for marginalized groups. If pursued rigorously, the proposed anthropological studies could provide clarity and integrity to reservation allocations while limiting exploitation or fraud.

This report opens opportunities for dialog but also poses challenges regarding legal frameworks on altering recognized caste lists, given Supreme court precedents prohibiting changes in identity recognition.

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