Wed Feb 04 14:29:19 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Denotified Tribes Push for Separate Census Column Ahead of 2027 Caste Enumeration

The Story:

Denotified, nomadic, and semi-nomadic tribes across India are advocating for a separate column in the upcoming 2027 Census to ensure their distinct recognition and prevent further marginalization. This demand comes as India prepares for its first caste enumeration since 1931. Community leaders express concerns that without a specific code and column, their unique identity and needs will be overlooked, continuing a historical pattern of misclassification and neglect that began with the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. While the Social Justice Ministry has recommended their inclusion to the Office of the Registrar General of India, uncertainty remains about the implementation.

Key Points:

  • Denotified Tribes (DNTs) are demanding a separate column in the 2027 Census for constitutional recognition.
  • India is conducting a caste enumeration for the first time since 1931 in February 2027.
  • The Criminal Tribes Act, 1871, classified entire communities as “hereditary” criminals. It was repealed in 1952.
  • The Social Justice Ministry has recommended including DNTs in the upcoming Census.
  • Community leaders fear being “lost” without a separate column and code.
  • The government has not yet finalized questions for the census.
  • Some leaders are also advocating for “graded backwardness” within the DNT grouping.
  • The SEED scheme for DNTs has seen limited spending: only ₹69.3 crore spent out of a planned ₹200 crore in the last five years.

Critical Analysis:

The timing of the DNTs’ push, coupled with the upcoming caste enumeration, suggests a strategic effort to leverage the heightened focus on social classifications. The reference to the August 2024 Supreme Court judgement on sub-classification of SCs and STs indicates an attempt to capitalize on the legal precedent for more granular categorization. The mention of Tamil Nadu gearing up for Census 2027, reinforces the nationwide effort towards the census and makes the DNT’s ask extremely time sensitive.

Key Takeaways:

  • The push for a separate census column is a direct response to historical injustices and ongoing marginalization experienced by DNT communities.
  • The success of this effort hinges on the government’s willingness to implement a separate code and column, and on State governments properly issuing DNT certificates.
  • Internal divisions and the advocacy for sub-classification within the DNT grouping suggest a complex and nuanced understanding of their own needs.
  • The low expenditure on the SEED scheme highlights the challenges in effectively implementing policies for DNT upliftment.
  • Community leaders emphasize that accurate enumeration is crucial for effective advocacy and resource allocation.

Impact Analysis:

The outcome of this census effort will have long-term implications for the DNT communities. If successful, a separate census column could lead to better targeted policies, increased resource allocation, and improved social and economic outcomes. Failure to secure distinct recognition could perpetuate their marginalization and hinder their ability to access essential services and opportunities. It could also influence the future of similar demands from other marginalized groups seeking recognition and representation.

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