Key Points

The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented a sweeping ban on caste references in official police records and public spaces. This directive orders the removal of caste from documents like FIRs and arrest memos, using parents' names for identification instead. Caste-based rallies are now prohibited, and symbols must be removed from police stations and vehicles. However, an exemption exists for cases requiring caste identification under the SC/ST Act.

Key Points: UP Bans Caste References in Police Records and Public Spaces

  • Caste will be replaced by parents' names for identification in FIRs and arrest memos
  • Caste symbols and slogans must be removed from police stations and vehicles immediately
  • The order includes a complete ban on caste-based rallies across the state
  • Exemptions apply for cases filed under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act
2 min read

UP government bans caste references in police records, public spaces

Uttar Pradesh government bans caste mentions in FIRs, police documents, and public displays following a High Court directive to end caste discrimination.

"Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all devotees... Happy Navratri! Jai Mata Ki! - CM Yogi Adityanath"

Lucknow, September 22

Acting on the directives of the Allahabad High Court, the Uttar Pradesh government on Monday ordered a complete ban on caste-based references in police records and at public places to end caste discrimination in the state.

Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar issued instructions to all departments, directing that caste will no longer be mentioned in First Information Reports (FIRs), arrest memos, or other police documents. Instead, the names of parents will be used for identification purposes.

The order further directs that caste symbols, slogans, and references displayed on police station noticeboards, vehicles, or signboards must be removed immediately.

Additionally, caste-based rallies have been prohibited across the state, with law enforcement tasked to ensure strict monitoring of social media platforms to prevent violations.

However, the government has clarified that exemptions will apply in cases filed under the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, where identifying caste remains a necessary legal requirement.

To implement the High Court's directive effectively, amendments will be made in Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and police manuals.

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a Janta Darshan in Gorakhpur today.

At the Janta Darbar, the Chief Minister listened to the grievances of the people. CM Yogi also extended greetings on the occasion of Navratri.

"Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all devotees and residents of the state on the sacred festival of worship and adoration of Maa Bhagwati Jagadamba, 'Shardiya Navratri'! May Mother bless everyone's life with happiness, health, and prosperity; this is the prayer. Happy Navratri! Jai Mata Ki!" CM wrote on X.

Earlier, on September 21, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the state government has engaged 300 intellectuals, including retired chief secretaries, secretaries, deputy secretaries and vice-chancellors, to help frame a roadmap for a "Developed India-Developed Uttar Pradesh 2047."

Addressing a workshop on the subject, the Chief Minister said these experts are visiting academic institutions across the state to hold discussions and gather ideas from people on the state's development goals for 2047.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Good move but implementation is key. Police stations need proper training on this. Also, what about existing records? Will they be updated?
A
Aditya G
While I support the intention, I'm concerned about the practical aspects. How will identification work without caste mentions? Parent names might not be sufficient in many cases.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has worked in social development, I appreciate this progressive step. Caste discrimination starts with these small identifiers. Removing them from public spaces is symbolic but important.
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Vikram M
The exemption for SC/ST Act cases makes sense - protection laws need caste identification. But banning caste rallies is controversial. Political parties won't like this before elections! 😅
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Nisha Z
Finally! We need to move beyond caste politics. This is a step in the right direction. Hope people understand the spirit behind this decision rather than opposing it for political reasons.
M
Michael C
Interesting development. In Western countries, we moved away from such identifiers decades ago. India is taking the right path towards creating a more inclusive society.

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