z:\ ambedkar\vol-02\vol2-08.indd MK SJ+YS 21-9-2013/YS-8-11-2013 672
672 DR. BABASAHEB AMBEDKAR : WRITINGS AND SPEECHES
IV. N OMENCLATURE
In dealing with this part of the question we would like to point out that the existing nomenclature of Depressed Classes is objected to by members of the Depressed Classes who have given thought to it and also by outsiders who take interest in them. It is degrading and contemptuous, and advantage may be taken of this occasion for drafting the new constitution to alter for official purposes the existing nomenclature. We think that they should be called “Non-caste Hindus”, “Protestant Hindus”, or “Non-conformist Hindus”, or some such designation, instead of “Depressed Classes”. We have no authority to press for any particular nomenclature. We can only suggest them, and we believe that if properly explained the Depressed Classes will not hesitate to accept the one most suitable for them.
We have received a large number of telegrams from the Depressed Classes all over India supporting the demands contained in this Memorandum.