Government Issues Strict Rules for 2027 Census, Warning Against Inappropriate Questions
3 Years Jail for Obstructing Census: Govt Issue Strict Warning: The central government has issued strict instructions for the upcoming 2027 Census, warning officials against asking inappropriate or offensive questions during data collection. According to the new circular, any officer who knowingly asks indecent questions may face serious punishment under the Census Act of 1948, including up to three years of imprisonment. The move comes as the government prepares to conduct India’s first fully digital census.
The Registrar General of India has directed all states to strictly follow the new guidelines. Officials have been clearly told to avoid asking irrelevant or offensive questions and to ensure that all information collected is accurate. Under Section 11 of the Act, violating these rules can result in a fine of ₹1,000, a jail term of up to three years, or both. Authorities have also been warned against sharing personal data without permission or submitting false information.
This census will be the 16th since independence and will also include a caste-based count for the first time. With a budget of ₹11,718 crore, the census was earlier planned for 2021 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2027, citizens will also have the option to enter their details online through self-enumeration, making the process more modern and accessible.
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