Caste Census Takes-off Amid Public Reluctance to Share all Information

Hyderabad: The state government launched its caste census on Saturday, with enumerators visiting households across the state to collect detailed information from the family members.

The process, which aims to gather data on caste and other socio-economic indicators, began with a preliminary house listing from November 6 to 8, during which enumerators assigned unique identification numbers to each household.

In keeping with democratic traditions, the first visit was to Raj Bhavan where Governor Jishnu Dev Varma provided details to enumerators.

Meanwhile, resistance from the public has been reported across districts, with residents expressing concerns over certain types of information that were being sought.

Enumerators were subject to embarrassing situations at some places, especially regarding questions about movable and immovable assets, and loan history. Many people wondered why details about their properties and financial transactions were being solicited in a census they believed was focused solely on caste.

"Since this is a caste census, we are willing to provide information about caste, but we see no reason to share details about our assets or loans," some respondents argued.

Others pointed out that the government already has substantial information about individual assets through various departments and sources like the transport department, Dharani portal, stamps and the registrations department where property transactions are linked to Aadhar numbers.

Concerns also surfaced as regards details of loans and property ownership, especially those registered in the names of family members.

Some citizens suggested that the enumerators should refer to the existing records rather than burdening individuals with questions that they deem are unnecessary.

Following reports from enumerators about such resistances, district collectors took the matter to the state government’s knowledge.

In an attempt to address public concerns, the government directed district collectors to conduct awareness sessions clarifying the purpose and scope of the census.

Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, who also oversees the planning department (which is conducting the census), had a video conference interaction with senior officials and district collectors to discuss the issue.

Vikramarka stressed the need for regular interaction between district collectors and the enumerators to address public doubts swiftly.

"As the survey progresses, questions and concerns are likely to arise. By keeping open, lines of communication with enumerators, district collectors can promptly relay concerns to senior officials and ensure immediate clarifications," he said.

Vikramarka described the caste census as a critical programme, which has a nationwide significance.

“The caste survey is among the most extensive programmes undertaken in the country. Its success will depend on our collective commitment and thorough execution,” he asserted.

Chief secretary A. Santhi Kumari, principal secretary (planning) Sandeep Kumar Sultania, and other officials joined the video conference.