Latehar admin deploys officers to create Census awareness after resistance from tribals

Daltonganj: The ongoing houselisting and house census drive for Census 2027 is facing hurdles in parts of Latehar district, with tribals allegedly turning away enumeration teams, citing constitutional safeguards under the Fifth Schedule.

A recent instance was reported from Kema village under Latehar police station limits, where a section of tribals refused to allow teams to carry out houselisting. Sources said that villagers believe the exercise infringes upon their right to self-governance guaranteed under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution, which offers protections over tribal identity and land.

Principal district Census officer and deputy commissioner Sandeep Kumar said, “There is reluctance towards houselisting and house census at Kema village. Residents feel it goes against the privileges conferred under the Fifth Schedule, which, however, isn’t true.”

Officials said that misconceptions are driving the opposition. “Some vested interests are spreading misinformation that houselisting will lead to eviction from land and homes. These fears are baseless and malicious,” Kumar said, adding that teams have been directed to build trust through awareness rather than coercion.

The administration has deputed block development officers (BDOs) and sub-divisional officers (SDOs) to engage with villagers. “There will be no pressure. Our teams are persuading people and working to win their confidence,” he said.

Latehar SP Kumar Gaurav also appealed for cooperation. “Raising the issue of Fifth Schedule is misplaced,” he said.

Officials clarified that the exercise does not require any documents such as registered deeds, mutation papers, register-II entries or receipts of record of rights. No Aadhaar, PAN, bank details or OTPs are sought. The houselisting questionnaire includes basic details like number of rooms, housing condition, sanitation, electricity and cooking facilities.

The drive, which began on May 16, will continue till June 14. Latehar has 1,533 houselisting blocks under 11 charge officers, with nine blocks falling under Fifth Schedule areas.