R Parthiban's 'No Caste No Religion' Petition Gets Madras High Court's Clearance, Authorities Directed To Issue Certificate

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a landmark decision that has sparked widespread discussion, the Madras High Court has directed authorities to issue a 'No Caste, No Religion' certificate to actor-filmmaker Radhakrishnan Parthiban. Justice M Dhandapani instructed the Sholinganallur Tahsildar in Chennai to process Parthiban’s application and grant the certificate by April 29. The court’s order came after Parthiban approached it alleging prolonged inaction from authorities despite submitting his application on March 20.

Madras HC's order on Parthiban's plea

During the hearing, the court expressed displeasure over the delay caused by authorities. HC observed that such repeated inaction was unacceptable. It further noted that if the Tamil Nadu government continues to remain unresponsive, the actor would be within his rights to initiate contempt of court proceedings.In his petition, Parthiban made it clear that his request is due to conscious and deeply personal choice. He stated that upon reaching adulthood, he decided not to associate himself with any caste or religion. This ideological stance formed the foundation of his plea, as he sought official recognition for a way of life he has already embraced.

Interestingly, Parthiban also pointed out the absence of conventional documentation that typically establishes caste or religious identity. Having discontinued his education after Class 11, he does not possess school records or a birth certificate that mention these details. This lack of formal documentation, combined with his personal beliefs, strengthened his case before the court.While advocating for his own identity choice, Parthiban acknowledged the practical realities faced by families. He revealed that he had obtained caste certificates for his children in the past to facilitate school admissions and other necessities. However, he also stressed that as adults, they are free to choose their own path, whether that involves following a religion or rejecting such labels altogether. Parthiban also pointed out his view that while the caste system is intrinsic to Hinduism, it does not exist in religions such as Christianity, Islam, Buddhism and Sikhism.

Parthiban's reaction

In his interaction post the hearing, the actor also shared his perspective on the broader social implications of his move. As per a report in Cinema Express, he argued that identity markers tied to birth can often limit personal freedom and sows seeds of divisions within society. Parthiban drew parallels with his earlier advocacy for body donation, a cause that initially faced resistance but gradually gained acceptance over time. He believes that the concept of a “No Caste, No Religion” identity could follow a similar trajectory, and his stance might make it easier for others to do so in future, if they want to.