The Odisha government has officially prohibited the use of the word ‘harijan’ in all government communications, educational materials, and official records. The decision follows directions from the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, which had earlier advised states to stop using the term, as it is considered outdated and derogatory by many members of the Scheduled Castes community. All departments and institutions in Odisha have been instructed to use legally recognised terms like ‘Scheduled Caste’ instead.
I am writing about this because language in official records is not just about words — it is about respect, identity, and dignity. Many people may not realise that certain terms, though once popular, can carry historical baggage that hurts the very communities they aim to describe. I believe it is important for citizens to understand why such changes are made. This is not simply a matter of replacing a term in files; it reflects a shift towards more respectful and legally correct representation of communities. It also highlights how policies at the Centre influence state-level reforms, impacting education, governance, and public awareness.
Why the Term ‘Harijan’ is Controversial
The word ‘harijan’ was popularised by Mahatma Gandhi, meaning “children of God.” However, over time, many Dalit rights activists argued that it was patronising and failed to address caste-based discrimination. The Supreme Court of India and the National Commission for Scheduled Castes have also recommended avoiding the term in official use.
Changes Ordered in Odisha
- All state departments must replace the term with ‘Scheduled Caste’ in records
- Educational institutions must update books, forms, and notices
- Government communications must use constitutionally approved terminology
- Old documents will be revised during updates to maintain consistency
Expected Impact of the Ban
By making this change, Odisha aims to:
- Promote respectful language in official dealings
- Set a precedent for other states to follow
- Reduce instances of casual caste-based labelling
- Align with national guidelines for social justice
The move by the Odisha government is more than a legal adjustment — it is a symbolic step towards equality. Words have power, and in official records, they define how communities are seen and treated. Removing outdated terms like ‘harijan’ is a necessary part of building a more inclusive and respectful society.
