Census 2027: Parents' Religion and Birthplace Now Key Questions

As India prepares for Census 2027, the government has proposed a questionnaire that seeks to gather extensive details about respondents' parents, including their religion and place of birth down to the village level. This move has sparked debates about privacy and the potential implications for individuals from marginalized backgrounds.

Questions of Accountability

Citizens are left wondering: What measures are in place to protect sensitive information? Will this data be used to reinforce social hierarchies or discriminate against certain communities? As reported by The Hindu, the questionnaire also includes options for respondents to declare their caste or indicate a preference for non-declaration, but how will this affect those who choose not to disclose their caste identity?

With the census being a crucial tool for policy-making and resource allocation, the government must ensure that the process is transparent and inclusive, addressing the concerns of all citizens. What steps are officials taking to guarantee that the census serves the public good rather than further marginalizing vulnerable populations?

Source: The Hindu