Soundala Gram Panchayat passes resolution to become caste-free

Key facts

• The Gram Sabha of Soundala village in Maharashtra passed a resolution on 5 February to declare the village caste-free and end discrimination based on caste, religion, creed, or race.
• Led by Sarpanch Sharad Argade, the resolution adopts the principle of My religion — humanity and mandates equal rights for all residents.
• The policy ensures that all public places, government services, water sources, temples, crematoriums, and schools remain open to every member of the community.
• Village authorities are authorised to take action against social media posts that incite caste-based tension or hatred.
• Soundala has a population of approximately 2,500, consisting of 65 per cent Marathas and 20 per cent Scheduled Caste (SC) residents.
• The Gram Sabha previously passed a resolution in September 2024 to provide ₹11,000 for widow remarriage to combat social exclusion.
• In November 2024, the village banned the use of derogatory curse words against women and implemented a fine of ₹500 for violators.
• The village dispute resolution council, known as the Tanta-Mukti Samiti, is headed by Sanjay Gore from the SC community.