Imagine a group of people, over 100 million strong, who have been historically marginalized and excluded from official records. Their voices, their very existence, have been largely ignored. But now, they are demanding to be seen, to be counted, and to have their rights recognized. This is the story of the denotified, nomadic, and semi-nomadic tribes (DNTs) in India, and their fight for inclusion in the upcoming 2027 Census.
Professor G.N. Devy, a renowned linguist and cultural scholar, warns that failing to count DNTs could further alienate and marginalize these communities. He emphasizes that the Census must explicitly acknowledge and enumerate DNTs to ensure their welfare and visibility.
"The problem of alienating over 10 crore people could be far more significant than the act of counting them," Devy says. He highlights the historical context, explaining how the Census and the Criminal Tribes Act (CTA) were both established in 1871, yet the plight of DNTs has persisted due to their exclusion from proper counting, except in 1931.
Devy points out that various committees and commissions, including the Iyengar Committee in 1950 and the Renke Commission in 2008, have called for a census of DNTs. However, crucial questions about their nomadic status have never been included in Census schedules.
"This exclusion is a form of motiveless malignity," Devy asserts. "The Census has no valid reason to exclude DNTs, yet it continues to do so simply because it has done so in the past."
So, how can the government ensure an inclusive Census for DNTs? Devy suggests a multi-pronged approach. Firstly, the Census must declare its intention to enumerate DNTs, sending a clear message to communities across the country. Secondly, the technology used should be accessible, with provisions for those without access to technology to declare their DNT status at designated offices. Thirdly, the Census should avoid creating an extensive and cumbersome list of documents, as DNTs have historically faced challenges in obtaining birth certificates. Finally, the Census data on DNTs should be verified by the Anthropological Survey of India and made openly available for scholarly scrutiny.
Devy also addresses the complex issue of identity and intersectionality within DNT communities. He acknowledges that DNT identity is not exclusive and intersects with other identities, such as SC/ST/OBC. He argues that bureaucratic processes can be improved to accommodate this complexity, leveraging technology to facilitate multiple classifications and tags.
Amidst calls for separate quotas and reservations for DNTs, Devy emphasizes the need for factual data. He believes that the first step is to count and create a comprehensive report on DNTs, followed by political decisions on reservations. Without credible data, no informed decisions can be made.
"Let the count take place first," Devy urges. "Governments and the people can then decide on the way forward, whether to demand reservations or not."
The fight for the recognition and rights of DNTs is a complex and ongoing battle. By ensuring their inclusion in the 2027 Census, India has an opportunity to address historical injustices and take a step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think the Census should explicitly count DNTs? How can we ensure an inclusive process that respects the complexities of identity and intersectionality? Share your insights and let's spark a conversation!
