Church Condemns MP Cops' Caste Label Marked on Chest

Caste profiling as SC/ST/ OBC on their chests in the BJP ruled state, Madhya Pradesh, police recruitment exercise for constable post.

The church in India strongly condemned the discriminating act of labeling candidates for constable post as SC/ST/ OBC on their chests.

The recent incident of caste profiling in the BJP ruled state, Madhya Pradesh, police recruitment exercise has kicked up a storm, prompting a widespread outcry. The act is not only a violation of human rights but also a criminal offence under the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.

Candidates were marked "SC" for scheduled caste, "ST" for scheduled tribe, "O" for OBC (other backward class) and "G" for General, for the post of constable on their chests in a bid to identify their castes during their medical examination.

Although medical board member and civil surgeon S.K. Khare denied the allegations, there was a widespread outcry in the country.

Khare said labeling were not intended to show them in a poor light, but to make the process easier as each category has job quotas and markdowns in requirements.

However, the Superintendent of Police, Dhar district said there was no order from the police to mention the caste of a candidate on their chests.

"An inquiry has been initiated. Those found guilty will be punished," he added.

National Council of Churches in India condemned the inhuman act and urged the state to take action against the medical and police officials for violating the rights of Dalits, Adivasis and OBCs.