Words are Matter.

(Times of india chennai. Dated 04 sept 2026)

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 "I strongly condemn this caste-insensitive language"

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Letter to the Editor

Subject: “From Pariah to Pampered” — Words Matter

I am happy that people are increasingly coming forward to adopt street dogs and give them a loving home. It is indeed heartening to see greater compassion towards Indian dogs.

However, I am deeply disappointed that the concern shown towards dogs has not been accompanied by a corresponding social sensitivity towards the people whose caste name has historically been used as a derogatory expression.

The title of the article, “From Pariah to Pampered,” and the repeated use of the word “pariah” in the article are deeply offensive.

The Times of India

Does the editorial team of a reputed newspaper like The Times of India, particularly its Chennai edition, not recognize the historical and caste implications of this word?

Or is there an assumption that no one will question it?

Is this merely ignorance—or does it reflect a certain social arrogance and caste privilege that allows such words to be used casually?

The article could simply have used “street dog,” “Indian dog,” or “Indie dog.” These expressions are clear, accurate and already used throughout the article itself. Why was it necessary to use a term carrying such a painful caste history?

There is something deeply disturbing about celebrating the transformation of a “pariah” into a “pampered” dog while ignoring the fact that Paraiyar/Pariah is connected to the history and identity of an oppressed caste community.

Words are not innocent when they carry centuries of social humiliation.

A newspaper with the reach and influence of The Times of India has a responsibility to be conscious of the historical and social implications of the language it uses. Animal welfare and social justice should not stand in opposition to each other.

I strongly condemn this insensitive usage and urge the editorial team to reconsider the terminology and acknowledge the hurt it can cause to members of the community whose name has been historically used as an insult.

I strongly condemn this caste-insensitive language.

Puthiyamaadhavi

Mumbai

The Times of India article — “From pariah to pampered”