Court directs Tahsildar to process application within specified timeframe, setting precedence for non-religious identity acknowledgment.
In a significant ruling, the Madras High Court has directed the issuance of a "No Caste No Religion" certificate to Radhakrishnan Parthiban, an eminent actor and filmmaker who sought the certificate to affirm his non-belief in religion and caste. The decision was delivered by Justice M. Dhandapani in response to a writ petition filed by Parthiban, citing the undue delay in processing his application by jurisdictional authorities.
The petitioner's application, originally submitted on March 20, 2026, to the Tahsildar, Velachery, was transferred to the Tahsildar, Sholinganallur, due to jurisdictional changes but remained pending. The delay prompted Parthiban to approach the High Court for redress.
During the hearing, Parthiban's counsel referenced a previous decision by the Division Bench of the Madras High Court in June 2025, which mandated the issuance of such a certificate within one month. Parthiban's legal team argued for similar relief, emphasizing the precedent and the fundamental right to choose one's identity without religious or caste affiliations.
In response, the Government Advocate acknowledged that similar certificates had been issued in the past, affirming the feasibility of the request. The court, taking into consideration the Division Bench's prior ruling, instructed the Sholinganallur Tahsildar to issue the certificate by April 29, 2026.
This ruling underscores the judiciary's role in recognizing and facilitating the expression of non-religious identities, a growing demand in India's diverse socio-cultural landscape. The court's directive not only expedites Parthiban's individual request but also reinforces the legal framework supporting citizens' rights to identify without religious or caste labels.
The matter has been scheduled for compliance reporting on April 29, 2026, to ensure adherence to the court's directive. The case reflects an evolving narrative in Indian jurisprudence, accommodating personal freedom in matters of identity and belief.
Bottom Line:
Direction to issue "No Caste No Religion" Certificate within a stipulated time frame, referencing a similar precedent set by the Division Bench of the same Court.
Statutory provision(s): No specific statutory provisions mentioned in the judgment.
Radhakrishnan Parthiban v. District Collector Collectorate, (Madras) : Law Finder Doc id # 2887168
