H.SANTHOSH Vs. DISTRICT COLLECTOR

JUDGEMENT

(1.) The paramount issue that arises for adjudication in this appeal is as to whether an Indian citizen can claim for issuance of a certificate recognizing him of not belonging to any caste or religion. In the order of the learned Single Judge passed in W.P.No.1290 of 2024 dtd. 22/1/2024, the appellant's request has been summarily rejected by holding that the Tahsildars of the State have not been empowered by the Government to issue such a certificate.

(2.) In India, religion and caste are two deeply rooted social identifiers that influence many aspects of life, including personal identity, politics and social interactions. Religion in India refers to a system of belief, practices and moral values centred around higher power or deity. India is known for its religious diversity with Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and Jainism being the major religions. Religion often shapes cultural practices, festivals and deity hopes and even marriage choices.

(3.) Caste in India is a traditional social hierarchy especially associated with Hindu society, though its influence is felt across other communities too. It divides people into hereditary groups based on occupation and social status, the four main Varnas being, the Brahmins (priests, scholars); Kshatriyas (warriors, rulers); Vaishyas (traders, merchants) and Shudras (labourers, service providers). Apart from these, there are Scheduled Castes (Dalits), Scheduled Tribes and historically marginalized groups, who have been subjected to discrimination.