A potential crisis looms over India's upcoming 2027 Census, threatening to exacerbate the alienation of over 100 million people. This issue, as linguist and cultural scholar Professor G.N. Devy warns, stems from the historical neglect of denotified, nomadic, and semi-nomadic tribes (DNTs), who were labeled as 'criminal' under the 1871 Criminal Tribes Act during the colonial era.
The core issue: A call for recognition
DNT communities across India are advocating for a 'separate column' on the 2027 Census forms, demanding recognition and visibility. Professor Devy, who has a long history of advocating for DNT rights, including co-founding the DNT-Rights Action Group, emphasizes that the Census Commissioner must explicitly commit to counting these communities. He argues that the challenge of engaging over 10 crore people is more significant than the technicalities of enumeration.
A missed opportunity in past Censuses
The 2027 Census presents a pivotal opportunity for DNT welfare, especially with the enumeration of caste. However, despite calls from various committees and commissions since 1950, DNT-specific questions have never been included in Census schedules. This exclusion, Professor Devy argues, is baseless and perpetuates the historical neglect of these communities.
The path to an inclusive Census
To ensure inclusivity, Professor Devy suggests four steps. First, the Census should publicly announce the enumeration of DNTs. Second, accessible technology is crucial, with alternatives for those without access. Third, the Census must avoid bureaucratic hurdles, especially regarding documentation. Fourth, the data collected should be swiftly verified by the Anthropological Survey of India and made available for scholarly scrutiny.
Identity complexities and intersectionality
The question of DNT identity is complex, often intersecting with SC/ST/OBC classifications. Professor Devy acknowledges this bureaucratic challenge but emphasizes that DNTs should not bear the brunt of administrative complexities. Technology, he suggests, can help manage multiple classifications.
Reservations and representation
The demand for DNT reservations and representation in political bodies is longstanding. Professor Devy distinguishes between counting DNTs to establish factual data and the subsequent decision on reservations. He argues that enumeration should precede political decisions, and the availability of credible data is essential for informed choices regarding reservations and their alignment with SC or ST quotas.
A call for action and discussion
The 2027 Census offers a chance to rectify historical injustices. But will the government take the necessary steps to ensure inclusivity? Will the Census address the complexities of DNT identity and representation? These questions spark debate and invite comments from all. What do you think? Is the government doing enough to address the concerns of DNT communities?
