Allahabad High Court Dismisses PIL Concerning Maharaja Suheldev

The Allahabad High Court recently dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought to alter the inscription on a foundation stone at the Chittorajheel Paryatak Sthal in Bahraich. The petitioner, Rajbhar Ekta Kalyan Samiti, represented by its Chairman Shri Pawan Kumar Rajbhar, requested the removal of the term 'Kshatriya' from the title 'Srawasti Naresh Sushail Dev Bhar' and its replacement with 'Bhar'. The petitioner also sought directives to ensure that the name 'Srawasti Naresh Suhail Dev Bhar' is consistently used in official references to the site.

The bench, comprising Justice Attau Rahman Masoodi and Justice Subhash Vidyarthi, emphasized that great individuals are remembered for their deeds rather than their caste affiliations. The court noted that while it respects the sentiments of the petitioner, it cannot engage in addressing purely academic questions, which was the nature of the issue presented in this PIL.

Furthermore, the court observed that the petitioner organization is itself caste-based and failed to provide admissible evidence with legal validity to substantiate the claim that Maharaja Suheldev Rajbhar belonged to the Rajbhar community. The bench highlighted that eminent figures from various religions and castes are recognized for their contributions in diverse fields such as spirituality, bravery, literature, and science. These individuals are celebrated by their names and achievements, not by their caste.

In conclusion, the court determined that the PIL pertained solely to a matter of academic interest and, as such, was not suitable for adjudication through a writ proceeding. Consequently, the petition was dismissed.

This decision underscores the judiciary's stance that legal forums are not the appropriate venues for debates centered on historical or academic interpretations, especially when they pertain to caste identities of historical figures. The court's emphasis on recognizing individuals for their contributions rather than their caste affiliations reflects a broader commitment to promoting social harmony and focusing on substantive achievements over divisive categorizations.