Nagmohan Das Commission considering changing names of certain Scheduled Caste communities that are used as cuss words in Karnataka

The commission is examining provisions in law and the Constitution, courts observations and directions on the issue, precedent, if any, and comparative changes that have taken place in the country.

The commission headed by retired judge H.N. Nagmohan Das, which is overseeing a survey of Scheduled Caste population in Karnataka to draw up internal reservation for them from the 17% reservation matrix, is also exploring the possibility of recommending change in name of certain scheduled caste communities that are used as cuss words.

Some of the names of Scheduled Castes communities, including Holeya, Ghantichor and Halalkor, had been used as cuss word in Karnataka, or used to impart a negative connotation.

In the survey of scheduled castes, 101 castes and a total of 186 castes, sub-castes and synonymous names are being used for enumeration. The enumerators, commission sources said, have also observed hesitancy among people belonging to these castes to declare their identity openly.

“We have changed the names of the countries, states, cities, villages and roads. Even individuals have got their names changed. In the past, castes have changed their names too. For example, Komiti is now called Arya Vaishya. If this is possible, why not for others? We are working on it,” Mr. Das told The Hindu.

He pointed out that of the 186 scheduled castes and sub-castes, many of the names were given by the upper castes.

The survey, which started on May 5, is part of the exercise to enumerate the scheduled caste population in Karnataka before arriving at a decision on earmarking reservation benefits to Dalit right (Holeya), Dalit left (Madiga) and touchable castes, such as Lambani, Bhovi, Korma, Korcha and Beda Jangama.

For decades, Dalit left factions have accused the right factions of enjoying the lion’s share in the reservation benefits in public education and employment.