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The population enumeration phase of census 2027 is causing concern among citizens who have already been through the stressful experience of the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Other than poll-bound states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Goa, door-to-door visits are scheduled to take place during January 25 and February 28, 2027.  There are serious concerns about the personal identifiers that have been proposed to be solicited. 

The fundamental question is whether there is any statistical purpose in obtaining details such as voter ID, passport and Aadhaar number.  

What does census entail?

A population census is the process of collecting, compiling, analysing and disseminating demographic, social, cultural and economic data relating to all persons in the country.

The census is conducted under the provisions of the Census Act, 1948 (CA 1948). To ensure confidentiality, section 15 of the Act stipulates that census records are not open to inspection and that information from census schedules or registers cannot be used as evidence in civil or criminal proceedings, except in prosecutions under CA 1948 itself.

Thus, only aggregated data at various administrative levels is published and no individual data collected is shared. CA 1948 also legally obligates people to provide correct details. Refusing to answer questions or providing false information is punishable with fine of up to Rs. 1,000.

As per the gazette notification dated August 14, 2026, for the purpose of the population enumeration, there are 40 questions. Besides demographic, socio-economic, caste and migration particulars of each individual, the information sought includes the total number of bank accounts, mobile number (if available), Aadhaar number (if available),........

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