SC commission issues notice to Punjab Census Directorate over use of casteist terms in official documents

PTC Web Desk: The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has issued a notice to the Directorate of Census Operations Punjab and the Punjab Government over allegations regarding the use of casteist words in an official list prepared for the upcoming census operations.

The commission has sought an explanation from the authorities concerned regarding the inclusion of objectionable caste-indicative words in government documents. In its notice, the NCSC asked officials to clarify why such language was used and what corrective measures have been initiated in response to the matter.

The commission has directed the officers concerned to submit a response within the stipulated timeframe. It has also asked authorities to specify the steps being taken to ensure that casteist or derogatory expressions are not used in future government records or census-related documentation.

The commission stated that it has decided to investigate the matter under the powers conferred upon it under Article 338 of the Constitution of India. Authorities concerned have been directed to submit an action taken report within 15 days of receiving the notice.

The NCSC further warned that failure to respond within the stipulated period could lead to the commission exercising powers of a civil court, including issuing summons for personal appearance before the panel.

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