The Bhumihar Brahmin debate in Bihar has triggered strong reactions across political and social circles. The issue revolves around whether the Bhumihar community should be officially recorded as Bhumihar or Bhumihar Brahmin in government documents. The demand has reopened old questions about caste identity and historical records.
The Bihar Upper Caste (Savarna) Commission held three meetings in recent weeks to resolve the matter. However, members failed to reach a common decision. Some argued that the term Bhumihar Brahmin existed in the 1931 census and old land records. Others opposed adding “Brahmin,” saying caste identity should not be altered through official orders.
Due to the disagreement, the Commission forwarded the issue to the state government. Now, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar will take the final decision. The move has raised political interest, as caste identity plays a key role in Bihar’s social structure.
Leaders of Bhumihar organisations claim the removal of “Brahmin” has created confusion in land ownership and community recognition. Meanwhile, some Brahmin groups have backed the demand, saying it does not affect social harmony.
As the Bhumihar Brahmin debate in Bihar continues, the government’s decision may set an important precedent for caste classification in the state.
