Government of Odisha Urges Departments to Cease Utilizing 'Harijan' Term in Official Correspondences
In a move aimed at respecting the dignity of persons belonging to scheduled castes, the Odisha government has issued a directive on August 12, 2021, instructing all departments and institutes to stop using the word "harijan" in their communications. This directive follows a similar order issued by the Centre in 1982 and reiterated in 2013.
The term "Harijan" was coined by Mahatma Gandhi in 1933 to identify Dalits, translating to "children of god." Gandhi introduced the term as part of his efforts to uplift these marginalized groups and combat the social stigma of untouchability. However, the term has been criticized by many Dalit leaders, including Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, as patronizing and inadequate, since it did not challenge the underlying caste hierarchy and power structures.
The use of the term "Harijan" can be traced back to Gandhi's admiration for Narsinh Mehta's work, a Gujarati poet-saint. The origin of the word is rooted in the Bhakti tradition.
The directives issued in 1982 and 2013 aimed to prevent the use of the term 'harijan' in official communications and records. The 2013 directive was a reiteration of the Centre's instruction to states regarding the use of the term 'harijan.' The Odisha government's action follows guidelines issued by the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) prohibiting the use of the word "harijan."
The directive applies to all official communications, records, transactions, caste certificates, publications, departmental names, and any other forms of use. The authorities have instructed the staff to educate themselves about the change and update relevant records. The commissioner-cum-secretary of the ST and SC Development, Minorities and Backward Class Welfare Department issued the directive.
The government has requested the use of words like "scheduled caste" in English, "anusuchita jati" in Odia, and equivalent terms in other national languages. This change reflects a commitment to promoting inclusivity and respect for all citizens, particularly those who have historically faced discrimination and exclusion.
References:
- Gandhi's 'Harijan' Movement
- Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and the 'Harijan' Movement
- The 'Harijan' Movement: A Reappraisal
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