Should caste-indicative schools and villages in MP be renamed?

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Should caste-indicative schools and villages in MP be renamed?

Synopsis

In a bold statement, Congress MLA Umang Singhar advocates for the renaming of caste-indicative schools and villages in Madhya Pradesh, aiming for equality and respect for SC and ST communities. His remarks at a recent conference highlight ongoing issues of discrimination and the need for social justice.

Key Takeaways

  • Umang Singhar's advocacy for renaming caste-indicative schools and villages.
  • Impact of caste labels on SC/ST communities.
  • Rahul Gandhi's support for lower castes in Madhya Pradesh.
  • Rajendra Pal Gautam's role in promoting social justice.

Bhopal, Aug 6 (NationPress) The Congress MLA and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly, Umang Singhar, has called for the renaming of villages and schools that carry caste-indicative names to promote equality in society.

Singhar pointed out that many educational institutions are labeled as "Chamar Tola schools" or other caste-specific titles, which he described as a disgrace to individuals from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs).

He asserted, "While it is acknowledged that SC/ST individuals have rights under the Constitution, they continue to endure humiliation and lack the respect they rightfully deserve. Our struggle for equality and dignity will persist until we achieve it."

Additionally, he cited Rahul Gandhi's recent statement that 90% of the populace in Madhya Pradesh belongs to lower castes, asserting that the Congress aims to be their voice. "Although significant improvements have been made since Independence, incidents of atrocities against Dalits remain alarmingly high in Madhya Pradesh," he remarked.

This declaration was made during the 'Social Justice Conference' held at the Congress headquarters in Bhopal, attended by Rajendra Pal Gautam, the new national chairman of the SC committee within the Congress party.

Rajendra Pal Gautam, a former minister in Delhi under the Arvind Kejriwal-led Aam Aadmi Party, joined Congress last September after resigning over controversial statements regarding Hindu deities. He also took part in a significant conversion event where approximately 10,000 individuals transitioned to Buddhism.

During his visit to Bhopal for the party event, Gautam met with State Congress Chief Jitu Patwari and other senior leaders, particularly those from the ST/SC communities.

Point of View

It is imperative to recognize the importance of advocating for social justice and the need for a unified voice to address these longstanding issues. The call for renaming caste-indicative institutions is a step towards fostering a more inclusive society.
NationPress
19/08/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Umang Singhar want to rename schools and villages?
Umang Singhar believes that caste-indicative names promote inequality and disrespect towards SC and ST communities. Renaming them would foster a more equitable society.
What did Rahul Gandhi say about lower castes in Madhya Pradesh?
Rahul Gandhi stated that 90% of the people in Madhya Pradesh belong to lower castes and emphasized that the Congress party will be their voice.
Who is Rajendra Pal Gautam?
Rajendra Pal Gautam is the national chairman of the SC committee of the Congress party and a former minister in Delhi.