Odisha bans use of ‘harijan’ in official records: Govt tells depts to use ‘scheduled caste’ or ‘anusuchita jati’ instead; move follows OHRC directive

The Odisha government has banned the use of the term ‘harijan’ in all official communications, directing departments and institutions to use ‘scheduled caste’ instead. This move follows guidelines from the Odisha Human Rights Commission and previous central government directives discouraging the term. Authorities are instructed to update records and educate staff, ensuring compliance with the new directive, reinforcing respectful terminology. Inspired By