In a significant move towards fostering democratic equality, the Chittur-Thathamangalam municipality in Kerala's Palakkad district has decided to discontinue the use of the honorific 'honourable' before the names of its chairman and secretary. This pioneering decision, initiated by the newly elected council, challenges long-standing traditions of formal address in government communication.
A Decision Rooted in Democratic Principles
The decision was spearheaded by the municipality's newly elected chairman, Sumesh Achuthan of the Congress party. He articulated that the move stems from a core belief that public servants should not receive honours and titles that ordinary citizens do not in a democracy. "By removing the term ‘honourable,' which creates a divide between citizens, we aim to ensure equality, dignity and civil rights for every citizen of Chittur as guaranteed by the Constitution," Sumesh stated. He emphasized that someone had to make a beginning to dismantle perceived hierarchies, adding, "Citizens should not think they are below anyone."
The decision will soon be formally presented before the municipal council for ratification. Once approved, the municipality will cease using the honorific in all its official documents and letters addressed to the government.
An Activist's Perspective: Correcting a Colonial Legacy
Human rights activist Boban Mattumantha, who has previously raised this issue, welcomed the municipality's initiative. He argued that government systems often operate without recognizing that people are the ultimate authority in a democracy. "Chittur-Thathamangalam municipality intends to correct this," he said.
Mattumantha critiqued the practice as a remnant of royal and colonial rule. "When respect is documented in govt notices, plaques and official letters, it serves as a reminder of authority, creating an impression that public servants must be respected and honoured," he explained. He noted that while terms like ‘his majesty' disappeared with monarchies, the tradition of titles persisted, with 'honourable' becoming a widespread term for modern-day elected representatives and officials.
This view contrasts with the state government's stance. In response to an RTI query from Mattumantha, the government had clarified that the honorific was meant to respect the position, not the person, and was part of basic democratic courtesy. However, the LDF government had recently refused to remove the honorific, while acknowledging no law mandated its use.
A Growing Trend and Its Implications
The move by Chittur-Thathamangalam is not entirely isolated. Mattumantha pointed out that Mathur panchayat in Palakkad has already done away with using ‘sir' and ‘madam' within its offices. He expressed hope that other local bodies across the state would emulate such initiatives to strengthen the democratic ethos.
The decision marks a symbolic yet powerful step towards redefining the relationship between public servants and citizens. It shifts focus from hierarchical reverence to a framework of service and equality, aligning official practice with the constitutional promise of a democratic republic. The move is being closely watched as it could set a precedent for other civic bodies in Kerala and beyond.
