Jorhat District Cancels Doctor's Caste Certificate Amid Investigation

New Delhi, India Jul 17, 2026 ALN: Allegations of misrepresentation in obtaining a Scheduled Caste (SC) certificate have surfaced in Jorhat district, leading to the cancellation of the certificate issued to a doctor currently serving at Lakhimpur Medical College and Hospital following an inquiry by the State Level Scrutiny Committee.

The Jorhat district administration on July 2 cancelled the SC certificate of Dr. Pallav Bora, son of Jiva Kanta Bora of Rangdoi village in Jorhat, after the State Level Scrutiny Committee under the Social Justice and Empowerment Department concluded that he does not belong to any Scheduled Caste community and had allegedly secured the certificate by furnishing false information.

According to official records, the committee, in an order issued on May 27, concluded that Dr. Bora was not a member of any Scheduled Caste community and recommended cancellation of any SC certificate issued in his favour.

Additional District Commissioner (ADC) of Jorhat, Pankaj Bora, said the findings were based on a CID report and other supporting evidence examined by the scrutiny committee. The investigation into Dr. Bora's caste certificate is part of a broader effort by the government to ensure that the benefits meant for Scheduled Caste individuals are not misappropriated by individuals who do not belong to these communities.

“On May 27, 2026, an order was issued by the Chairman of the State Level Scrutiny Committee stating that Dr. Pallav Bora of Rangdoi village in Jorhat does not belong to a Scheduled Caste community. The report was based on the CID investigation and other evidences,” the ADC said. This scrutiny committee is tasked with reviewing caste certificates to prevent fraudulent claims and ensure that those entitled to the benefits can access them without hindrance.

He said the district administration subsequently examined the matter and conducted a hearing on June 20 in the presence of representatives of the Asom Anusuchit Jati Parishad's Jorhat district committee. The hearing was an important step in the administrative process, allowing for a transparent review of the evidence and giving Dr. Bora an opportunity to defend himself against the allegations.

“During the hearing, we found that the certificate had been obtained through misrepresentation and furnishing of false information. Following the directions of the State Level Scrutiny Committee, the Jorhat District Commissioner cancelled the certificate on July 2,” he said. The cancellation of the certificate reflects the seriousness with which the authorities are treating such allegations, as misuse of caste certificates can undermine the integrity of affirmative action policies aimed at uplifting marginalized communities.

According to the administration, the cancelled certificate was recorded under Book No. 222 and Serial No. 22196 and had originally been issued on October 3, 1986. The long-standing nature of the certificate raises questions about how it was obtained and maintained over the years without scrutiny, highlighting potential gaps in the verification processes that were in place at the time of issuance.

The ADC said that during the proceedings, Dr. Bora identified himself as an Associate Professor at Lakhimpur Medical College and Hospital. “As per his statement, he is serving as an Associate Professor at Lakhimpur Medical College and Hospital. Copies of the cancellation order have been forwarded to the Principal of the medical college, the Directorate of Medical Education and the Health and Family Welfare Department for necessary action,” he said. This step indicates that the implications of the cancellation extend beyond Dr. Bora's personal circumstances, potentially affecting his professional standing and employment.

He further clarified that the cancellation of the caste certificate is a legal and administrative action arising from the findings of the scrutiny committee. Further action relating to employment or service matters would be taken by the competent authorities. This suggests that the case may not only involve administrative penalties but could also lead to further legal repercussions if any wrongdoing is established.

A notice issued by the Jorhat District Commissioner to Dr. Bora cited, “I am to inform you that the Secretary, State Level Scrutiny Committee, Department of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of Assam, vide his order No. eCF No. 629476/713 dated 27/05/2025, had concluded that you are not a member of any SC Community and hence, SC Certificates issued in your favour, if any, to be cancelled.” This formal notification serves as an official record of the findings and the actions taken by the authorities.

The ADC also revealed that the administration is examining similar complaints involving alleged misuse of caste certificates. “There have been allegations in other cases as well. Whenever evidence is available, we conduct detailed verification and, if certificates are found to have been obtained fraudulently, legal action is taken. Several such cases are currently under investigation,” he said. This proactive stance indicates a broader initiative by the Jorhat district administration to address the issue of caste certificate fraud, which has implications for the integrity of social justice measures in the region.

The development has triggered discussions with authorities indicating that scrutiny of caste certificate-related complaints will continue in the coming months. The increasing focus on verifying caste certificates is part of a larger national conversation about social justice, equity, and the need to ensure that the benefits of affirmative action policies reach those who genuinely need them. As the government seeks to uphold the principles of social justice, it faces the challenge of balancing the need for thorough investigations with the rights of individuals accused of misrepresentation.

In conclusion, the cancellation of Dr. Pallav Bora's SC certificate is a significant event that underscores the ongoing efforts by government authorities to combat fraud in the issuance of caste certificates. The implications of this case extend beyond the individual, as it raises awareness about the importance of maintaining the integrity of systems designed to support marginalized communities. With investigations into similar cases ongoing, the Jorhat district administration is taking a firm stance against fraudulent claims, aiming to reinforce public trust in social justice initiatives and ensure that resources are allocated fairly and justly.