This 2018 directive remains a contested issue in Indian media discourse, sparking ongoing debates about terminology and representation.

Media To Abstain From Using The Word Dalit

The word Dalit has its own significance for the Dalit communities. This ‘Dalit’ word connotes the history of struggle and survival for the Dalits. Recently, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting instructed the media to “abstain from using the terminology Dalit”. Further instructed them to use the constitutionally given term i.e. ‘Scheduled Caste’. On the other side, many Dalit rights groups have raised their voice against the order of I&B, by arguing that the terminology ‘Dalit’ has its own political significance and history of identity behind it.

Earlier, in the month of March, a similar kind of order was issued by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It firmly instructed all the state governments to use the official term mentioned in the constitution- ‘Scheduled Caste’ for official communication, instead of ‘Dalit’, which has no constitutional relevance. As it does not find a place for itself in the Indian constitution or any other statute.

I&B Ministry in its order on August 7, refer to a June order given by the Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench), and gave directions to the union government “to cogitate the question of issuing such giving out directions to the media and take appropriate resolution upon it within the given period of next six weeks”. According to the petitioner, the social justice ministry’s notice notified the media to stop using the term Dalit.

I&B order mentioned that “It is appropriately prompted that media may abstain from the use of the term ‘Dalit’ whereas indicating to members associated to Scheduled Castes, in compliance with the instructions of the Hon’ble Bombay High Court, and uses the Constitutional term ‘Scheduled Caste’ in English and its suitable interpretation in other national dialects ought to alone be utilised for all official transaction.’

Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment has also quoted a court order of (Madhya Pradesh High Court).  Ramdas Athawale, who has been a foundational member of Dalit Panther movement, which flourished in Maharashtra and made the term ‘Dalit’ famous, and various groups use this term for constructing the homogeneous political identity and the word  ‘Dalit’, ‘designated a sense of pride’, he further added.

“One petition has been filed by the Buddhist and said that it is understandable, government registers should use the term ‘Scheduled Caste’  due to its constitutionality, however on the other side for the media it seems no reason to abstain from the usage of this term Dalit”. The term Dalit has provided another level playing field of assertion and struggle against the injustice.

Former chairman of University Grant Commission Sukhdeo Thorat explained the term ‘Dalit’ and its significance for the Dalit community. The literal meaning of Dalit means excluded, but in the broader sense, this term has been using to cover the ambit of caste and class. There is no need to feel ashamed to use the word ‘Dalit’.

Asha Kowtal who is the member of the National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights, propagate the necessity of the term Dalit because it reflects the ‘collective identity’ instead of fragmented or separate identity.  This term has made the departure from the exclusion to power and strength of assertion. Furthermore, she added that various government steps to try to eradicate our identity slowly but gradually. She asserted that they will file a PIL in the Supreme Court in future if it would require.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the I&B Ministry instruct media about the term Dalit?

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting instructed media on August 7, 2018, to abstain from using the term ‘Dalit’ and instead use the constitutionally recognized term ‘Scheduled Caste’ in their communications and coverage.

Why did Dalit rights groups oppose this order?

Dalit rights groups argued that the term ‘Dalit’ carries significant political meaning and historical identity beyond constitutional definitions. They contended it represents their struggle and dignity, making it essential for accurate representation.

What is the difference between Dalit and Scheduled Caste terminology?

While ‘Scheduled Caste’ is the constitutional term used for official government purposes, ‘Dalit’ is a socio-political identity term emphasizing self-assertion and historical consciousness. Both refer to communities historically facing discrimination.

Did the Ministry of Social Justice issue a similar order?

Yes, in March 2018, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment issued instructions to state governments to use ‘Scheduled Caste’ in official communications instead of ‘Dalit’, citing constitutional authority.

What was the Bombay High Court’s role in this directive?

The Bombay High Court (Nagpur Bench) issued a June 2018 order that prompted the union government to issue directions to media within six weeks, which eventually led to the I&B Ministry’s August instruction on terminology usage.