Re-examination of Tribal Claims: Affinity Test Limits and Genealogical Verification for Thakur Caste

sketch of the Bombay High Court
Case
SMT. MONIKA SATISH THAKUR v. THE STATE OF MAHARASHTRA, THROUGH ITS SECRETARY , DEPARTMENT OF TRIBAL DEVELOPMENT, MANTRALAYA. (Bombay High Court, 08-10-2026)
Law
Administrative Law.

Highlights of the Judgment:

  • Examination of a Scheduled Tribe caste claim invalidated solely on the basis of failing the affinity test.
  • Application of Supreme Court principles regarding the limited evidentiary value of affinity tests in tribal verification.
  • Assessment of the probative value of caste validity certificates previously granted to blood relatives.
  • Requirement for the Scrutiny Committee to re-examine the petitioner's lineage and submitted genealogical tree.
  • Remand of the matter for a fresh factual determination concerning the petitioner's familial ties and caste status.