CM Saini accepts Meghwal Samiti demands, promises action on caste certificates

Saini said the caste certificate nomenclature change would be referred to the Centre, while 411 Meghwal community achievers were honoured.

Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday accepted all 10 demands raised by the Meghwal Utthan Samiti and announced a ₹31 lakh grant for the organisation at a gathering in Bawal focused on social harmony and honouring young achievers.

The demands were raised at a Bawal gathering on social harmony and youth achievement, where Saini also stressed education and equal opportunities. (Haryana CM Press Release)

However, the Haryana government did not make all 10 demands public in its press release. Four demands were disclosed, including construction of Dharamshalas in Rewari and Bawal, establishment of libraries in every panchayat, financial support for the Samiti, and replacing the word “Chamar” with “Meghwal” in caste certificates.

At the Samrasta Sammelan, a gathering focused on social harmony and equality, and the Pratibha Samman Samaroh, an event honouring talented achievers of the community, organised by the Meghwal Utthan Samiti, Saini assured the gathering that the demands would be forwarded to concerned departments for necessary action. He said the government would examine the demand for Dharamshalas in Rewari and Bawal after the committee identifies suitable locations.

On the demand for libraries, Saini said the government had set a target of establishing libraries in every panchayat, with around 1,000 libraries already opened across Haryana. He said the initiative would be expanded to all villages. Saini also said the recommendation to replace the word “Chamar” with “Meghwal” in caste certificates would be forwarded to the Centre, as caste nomenclature is a central subject.

At the event, Saini said social harmony must be treated as a way of life, with equality, dignity and equal opportunities forming the foundation of an inclusive society. “Social harmony is not a one-day event but a way of life and a value that must be practised throughout life. It does not mean erasing anyone’s identity but strengthening social and national unity while ensuring equal respect for every identity,” Saini said.

Focus on education and youth

Saini said financial constraints should not prevent talented youngsters from pursuing their aspirations. He cited government schemes providing scholarships, coaching and educational assistance to students from disadvantaged sections. “When talented youth get the right platform, they are bound to make their mark,” Saini said.

The chief minister honoured 411 young achievers from the Meghwal community for accomplishments in education, medicine, engineering, sports and other fields.

Meanwhile, Haryana Industries and Commerce Minister Rao Narbir Singh said the Ahirwal region had witnessed significant development since 2014, particularly in roads, employment and infrastructure.

Bawal MLA Dr Krishan Kumar said the government was advancing the ideals of equality, justice and fraternity associated with Dr Ambedkar and other social reformers.