The new order seeks to bring uniformity and align official language with the principles of gender neutrality and social justice.
Published Jul 19, 2025 | 11:48 AM ⚊ Updated Jul 19, 2025 | 11:48 AM
Kerala government. (Wikimedia)
In a major step towards promoting inclusivity and gender equality in governance, the Kerala government has officially replaced the term “Chairman” with “Chairperson” across all administrative departments and public institutions.
A recent circular issued by the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department (Official Language) mandates the use of “Chairperson” in all official communications, documents, and designations.
The directive follows the recommendation of the Language Guidance Expert Committee, which emphasized the need to eliminate gendered language from government operations.
While institutions like the State Women’s Commission and Youth Commission had already adopted the term, many older bodies continued using “Chairman”.
The new order seeks to bring uniformity and align official language with the principles of gender neutrality and social justice.
Departments have been instructed to update existing name boards and signage to reflect the revised terminology.
The move is being seen as more than a symbolic gesture—it aims to raise awareness about gender sensitivity in language and contribute to a more equitable administrative culture.
Officials say the change reflects the government’s broader commitment to building a gender-just Kerala by gradually phasing out outdated, gender-specific titles from public discourse.
