August 13,2025 — The Odisha government has prohibited the use of the term “Harijan” in all official communications, directing that only “Scheduled Caste” be used in English along with its appropriate translations in Odia and other languages.
The order, issued by the ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward Classes Welfare Department and ratified by the Chief Secretary, applies to all departments, agencies, and subordinate offices. It mandates the replacement of the term in all existing records and requires compliance reports from departments.
The directive follows recommendations from the Odisha Human Rights Commission and aligns with earlier guidelines from the Union Government, including a 1982 Ministry of Home Affairs circular advising against the use of “Harijan” in official documents. A similar state directive issued in 2013 saw limited adherence.
Officials have been instructed to sensitize employees, update templates, and ensure all public communications reflect the constitutionally recognised term “Scheduled Caste” as per Article 341 of the Indian Constitution.
The move is aimed at promoting dignity and accuracy in state communications. While the term “Harijan” was originally popularised by Mahatma Gandhi, it has been criticised by several Dalit leaders and scholars as being outdated and condescending.
Authorities said the latest directive is part of broader efforts to ensure respectful, inclusive, and legally precise language in governance.
