Yogi Adityanath's UP Govt Bans Caste-Based Political Rallies

The Uttar Pradesh government has enacted a ban on caste-based political rallies and mentions in police records to curb caste glorification. While the ruling party defends the move, opposition parties criticise it as politically motivated ahead of elections.

The Uttar Pradesh government has taken a bold step by banning caste-based political rallies and the mention of caste in police records, vehicles, and signboards. This move follows a directive from the Allahabad High Court aimed at curbing caste glorification. The only exception to this rule is for crimes under the Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

Political Reactions

Opposition parties have not held back in their criticism. On September 22, 2025, they accused the ruling BJP of hypocrisy, pointing out that the party had previously organised caste-related events. Samajwadi Party's Rajkumar Bhati highlighted past BJP meetings with various castes and questioned the timing of this ban just as a Gurjar rally was announced.

Justice Vinod Diwaker's single-judge Bench had earlier instructed the state to address caste glorification issues. Acting Chief Secretary Deepak Kumar emphasised that political rallies promoting caste conflict disrupt public order and national unity. The notification mandates strict monitoring of social media for any messages that either glorify or condemn castes.

Enforcement Measures

The enforcement measures are comprehensive. Vehicles displaying caste names or slogans will face penalties under the Central Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Additionally, signboards in public spaces that glorify specific castes or declare areas as caste-based will be removed. The government is serious about ensuring these rules are followed.

In a significant administrative change, Mr. Kumar directed police to collaborate with the National Crime Records Bureau to remove fields for entering an accused person's caste on CCTNS portal formats. Until further notice, such information will remain blank in police case files.

The Congress party has voiced concerns over this decision, labelling it as dangerous and an attempt to silence marginalised communities. They argue that such measures could suppress voices that need to be heard in society.

The government's actions reflect a commitment to maintaining social harmony by reducing caste-based divisions. However, opposition parties see it as a politically motivated move ahead of upcoming elections. The debate continues as both sides present their arguments on this sensitive issue.