Telangana Revises Backward Classes Caste Nomenclature Following Commission Review

Hyderabad: In a move to address concerns about offensive terminology within its official caste classifications, the Telangana government has sanctioned modifications to numerous BC (Backward Classes) caste designations. The action came after the State BC Commission submitted its recommendations highlighting the problematic nature of certain existing nomenclature.

Implementation of the revised caste names has been initiated through formal orders issued by the Principal Secretary of the BC Welfare Department, with the updated designations now applicable across the various Backward Classes categories.

Under the revised framework, significant changes have been introduced within Group-A classifications. The designation 'Budabukkala', previously listed as number 4, has been redesignated as 'Shiva Kshatriya'. Additionally, the term 'Vannar' has been discontinued and replaced with 'Dhobi', with officials noting that the alternative names Rajaka, Chakali, or Dhobi may be employed in practice.

Further modifications in Group-A include the renaming of 'Dommara' (number 7) to 'Gada Vamshiya', and 'Pichhakuntla' (number 18) to 'Vamsharaj'. The caste classification previously identified as 'Veerabhhadriya' at number 23 has been reformulated to read 'Veeramushthi, Netti Kotala, Veerabhhadriya'.

Within Group D classifications, the nomenclature has similarly undergone revision. The caste name 'Mera' (number 5) has been altered to 'Meru', while 'Shudra' (number 29) has been replaced with 'Tammali'.

State officials explained that the comprehensive revisions were approved following careful examination of submissions that raised questions about the social dignity and sensitivity concerns associated with the previous caste terminology. The newly designated names will henceforth be reflected in official documentation and administrative procedures throughout the state.