Hyderabad, Telangana The All India Pasmanda Muslim Mahaaz (AIPMM) Telangana has raised concerns regarding a recent High Court directive mandating the inclusion of a “No Caste” option in the upcoming Telangana Caste Census forms. In an official statement, AIPMM Telangana conveyed its apprehension that the change may inadvertently impact the rights and representation of margin- alized Muslim communities, sp
ecifically Pasmanda Muslims.
The organization acknowledged the in- tent behind the court’s decision to allow individuals more freedom in their self- identification. However, AIPMM Telangana contends that this option could pose seri- ous risks to Pasmanda Muslims, who often lack awareness of the intra-Muslim caste distinctions, particularly classifications such as BC-A, BC-B, and BC-E, which pro- vide them access to crucial social benefits and protections. By selecting the “No Caste” option, many Pasmanda Muslims might unintentionally forfeit these protections, potentially compromising years of policy efforts aimed at addressing socio-economic disparities within the community.AIPMM also expressed concern over certain Ashraf groups promoting the notion that “there is no caste in Islam.” While reflective of an ideal of equality within the faith, AIPMM argued that this perception fails to address the social realities experienced by many Indian Muslims.If this belief influences census responses, more individuals might choose the “No Caste” option, diminish- ing the visibility of Pasmanda Muslims and potentially reducing support for policies designed to assist them. In its statement, AIPMM Telangana emphasized the need for authorities to reconsider the addition of the “No Caste” option or to take proactive steps to inform Pasmanda Muslims about the implications of census selections.
It urged for educational measures to ensure that marginalized Muslim communities do not lose critical recognition and resources essential for social development. The state- ment was issued by AIPMM Telangana President Advocate Adnan Qamar, who re- iterated the organization’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and representation of Pasmanda Muslims in Telangana.
