Implementation And Challenges Of The Chhattisgarh Social Status Certification Act, 2013
- IJLLR Journal
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Ashutosh Singh Kachhawaha, PhD. Scholar (Constitutional Law).
Dr. R.P. Choudhary, Associate Professor, Dr. C.V. Raman University, Bilaspur.
ABSTRACT
In India, caste-based affirmative action plays a crucial role in empowering historically disadvantaged communities. A prerequisite for availing such benefits is the possession of a valid caste or social status certificate3. However, the increasing number of fraudulent claims and administrative delays have made the issuance and verification of caste certificates a critical governance challenge4. To address this, the Chhattisgarh SC/ST/OBC Regulation of Social Status Certification Act, 2013 was enacted with the objective of establishing a transparent and accountable mechanism for identifying, certifying, and verifying the social status of individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes5. This research paper presents an analytical study of the implementation of the 2013 Act in the state of Chhattisgarh. It explores the legal framework, the institutional procedures laid down under the Act, and their actual execution at the ground level6. The paper investigates how effective the Act has been in preventing the misuse of caste-based benefits and ensuring timely certification for genuine claimants7. It further examines systemic issues such as bureaucratic inefficiency, political interference, lack of digital infrastructure, and low awareness among rural and tribal populations8. The study draws upon official reports, government notifications, High Court rulings, and verified news articles to highlight both achievements and persistent gaps in the implementation of the Act. Through real-life case examples, the paper identifies the need for reform in terms of digitization, decentralization, and legal awareness. The key argument of the paper is that while the Chhattisgarh Social Status Certification Act, 2013 is a step in the right direction, its success depends heavily on administrative efficiency and robust legal enforcement9. The paper concludes with actionable policy suggestions aimed at strengthening the social justice framework in the state.
Keywords: Social Status Certification, Caste Verification, Chhattisgarh 2013 Act, Affirmative Action, Administrative Law, Social Justice
