Call for Recognition: Tribal Religion in Census 2027

During the 2027 Census, enumerators will record religions as specified by respondents. The Lok Sabha addressed queries regarding the inclusion of a 'Tribal Religion' column, following suggestions from various organizations. The 2011 Census data revealed the Scheduled Tribes population in India, highlighting the need for distinct religious identification.

In the upcoming 2027 Census, enumerators are directed to record every religion as declared by the respondents, a procedure confirmed by the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai emphasized this to address questions posed by MP Rajkumar Roat, who pointed out the absence of a 'Tribal Religion' column in previous censuses.

Suggestions from various organizations have prompted discussions on whether a specific column for tribal religions should be introduced, reflecting the distinct identities within the Scheduled Tribes, whose population was reported at over 104 million according to the 2011 Census.

(With inputs from agencies.)