Finance
Following reports of unfortunate incidents during field operations, the Odisha government developed a thorough Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to strengthen the safety and security of census functionaries working on the ongoing first phase of Census 2027.
In a letter issued today, Additional Chief Secretary Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department directed all district collectors, municipal commissioners, and police superintendents to strictly enforce the SOP during the houselisting and housing census exercise, which will take place from April 16 to May 15.
The administration stated that enumerators are now visiting families around the state to gather information on housing conditions, amenities, and assets. However, recent occurrences have raised concerns about their safety, which could jeopardize the smooth administration of the census.
According to the SOP, enumerators and supervisors must always wear official identification cards and carry appointment letters while working in the field. They have also been encouraged to avoid working during peak heat hours, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., given the current weather conditions, and to take proper precautions against heat-related illnesses, including carrying ORS.
To improve safety in sensitive regions, authorities may work in pairs, with supervisors overseeing enumerators on an hourly basis. In the event of antagonism or perceived threats, personnel are urged to disengage immediately, avoid confrontation, and report instances to higher authorities.
The SOP also requires tight coordination with the police. Local police stations will be given information about census workers, and enumerators will be given emergency contact information. In identified sensitive areas, police personnel may accompany field staff to ensure security.
Furthermore, the rules encourage community engagement, advising census teams to consult with local leaders before beginning work in a community to foster trust and cooperation.
The government reaffirmed that any hindrance of census responsibilities will result in legal action under the Census Act of 1948, which provides for penalties and imprisonment of up to three years.
Officials stated that strict adherence to the SOP is required to ensure the timely and seamless completion of census activities throughout the state.
