Actor Parthiban Files PIL in Madras High Court Seeking Law for 'No Caste, No Religion' Certificates

Actor Parthiban, who had obtained a certificate declaring himself a person without caste or religion in April of this year pursuant to a Madras High Court order, appeared before Justice Thandapani and presented the certificate. On that occasion, the judge remarked that it was not enough for only Parthiban to benefit — others who apply for such certificates should also be able to benefit. Following this, Parthiban announced that he would file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on the matter.

Public Interest Petition

Parthiban subsequently filed a PIL requesting the Madras High Court to direct the Tamil Nadu government to enact legislation or issue a government order enabling those who apply for a 'no caste, no religion' certificate to receive it promptly.

In his petition, he noted that in June 2025, the High Court had ordered the Tamil Nadu government to issue government orders and instructions to Revenue Department officials to process applications for 'no caste, no religion' certificates. However, he stated that due to the strained relationship between the Governor and the then-government over the approval of laws, that order had been shelved.

Hearing Adjourned

Parthiban argued that since such circumstances no longer exist, the court should direct the government to enact the relevant legislation.

The case came up for hearing today before a bench comprising Chief Justice Sushrutha Aravinda Dharmadhikari and Justice G. Arulmurukan. The bench ordered the Secretaries of the Home Department, Revenue Department, and Law Department to file their responses to the petition within four weeks, and adjourned the hearing accordingly.