Affidavit for Caste Certificate Application (Maharashtra – Form 2)

**Sample PDF of the Affidavit is attached at the end.

Why and When is it Used?

• When applying for a caste certificate – for SC, SC converts to Buddhism, De-notified Tribes (Vimukt Jati), Nomadic Tribes, Other Backward Classes, or Special Backward Category.
• To confirm the applicant's caste claim, it legally binds the applicant to truthfully declare their caste, religion, place of residence, and whether they or their relatives have previously applied for or been granted caste validity.
• For preventing fraudulent claims – by affirming relationships with relatives whose caste validity certificate is enclosed.
• Mandatory in Maharashtra – must be submitted along with Form–1 (application for caste certificate) to the Competent Authority.

Purpose

• To provide a sworn declaration of caste, religion, and residence.
• To certify that the applicant (or their relatives) have not been refused a caste certificate earlier.
• To attach copies of valid caste validity certificates of relatives (if any).
• To serve as a legal undertaking so that false claims can be penalised.

Legal Angle

• False caste declaration can lead to cancellation of certificate, disqualification from education/job benefits, and criminal prosecution under Section 7 of Maharashtra Act XXIII of 2001 (Maharashtra Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, De-notified Tribes, Nomadic Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Special Backward Category (Regulation of Issuance and Verification of) Caste Certificate Act, 2000).
• Also punishable under Section 216 of BNS, 2023 (false evidence/perjury).

FAQs

Q1. Who has to file this affidavit?

Any applicant seeking a caste certificate in Maharashtra for SC/ST/NT/OBC/SBC categories.

Q2. Is it compulsory?

Yes. Without this affidavit (Form–2), the application (Form–1) for a caste certificate is incomplete.

Q3. Why does it ask about relatives' certificates?

Because if a close relative already has a valid caste validity certificate, it strengthens the applicant's claim.

Q4. Where is it submitted?

To the Competent Authority (Tahsildar / Sub-Divisional Officer / Collector's office), depending on caste category and area.

Q5. What if false details are given?

The caste certificate will be cancelled, and the person may face criminal charges.

Q6. Is this affidavit valid outside Maharashtra?

No. This is specific to Maharashtra's rules for caste certification.