Replacing community name in caste certificate: Haryana government says CM made no ‘announcement’

On Thursday, Haryana's government asserted that Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini had not announced his intention to propose replacing the term "leather worker" with "Meghwal" on caste certificates. Cabinet Minister Krishan Panwar clarified during a press conference that Saini had only stated that the matter fell under the central government's purview. Panwar emphasized that the Chief Minister had not made an announcement and had no intention to do so.

The state government released an official statement following Panwar's remarks, amid growing discontent within the community. Congress MLA and Dalit leader Geeta Bhukkal accused Saini of attempting to foster a "divide and rule" strategy, alleging that his comments had incited resentment among the community members.

The controversy emerged after Saini addressed a Meghwal community gathering in Bawal, Rewari, where he reacted to a 10-point list submitted by the Meghwal Utthan Samiti. One of the demands pertained to allowing individuals from communities traditionally involved in leather work to opt for using "Meghwal" on their Scheduled Caste certificates, should they so choose.

Saini had promised to recommend the inclusion of this option to the central government. Panwar explained that such decisions regarding the classification and incorporation of castes into Scheduled Caste categories are made by the central authorities. He noted that the Meghwal community in Haryana numbered around 80,000, while the community in question had approximately 30 lakh members.

Bhupender Meghwal, the secretary of the Meghwal Utthan Samiti, revealed that 60,000 caste certificates with the term "Meghwal" had already been issued in Haryana. The organization sought permission for others who wished to adopt the term. Panwar affirmed that Saini held both communities in high regard and was dedicated to their well-being and advancement.