Madras High Court Order TN Govt to Issue “No Caste, No Religion” Certificates

The Madras High Court has directed the Tamil Nadu government to issue a Government Order empowering revenue authorities, such as Tahsildars, to grant “No Caste No Religion” certificates.

The Court emphasized that this aligns with Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of conscience and religion. 

The man who sought this relief, petitioner H. Santhosh from Tirupattur, aims to raise his children without caste or religious identity.

The Court noted past instances, such as in Tirupattur, Coimbatore, and Ambattur, where similar certificates were issued and mandated that applications must now be entertained and certified within one month.  The court observed that such recognition promotes equality and can help reduce caste-based discrimination.