Odisha Issues SOP to Ensure Safety of Census Staff During 2027 Enumeration Drive

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has rolled out a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to enhance the safety and security of census personnel engaged in the first phase of Census 2027, following reports of untoward incidents during field operations.

In an official communication issued on Thursday, Additional Chief Secretary Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee from the Revenue and Disaster Management Department instructed all district collectors, municipal commissioners, and superintendents of police to strictly implement the guidelines. The SOP will be in force during the houselisting and housing census exercise scheduled from April 16 to May 15.

According to officials, enumerators are currently conducting door-to-door visits across the state to gather information on housing conditions, amenities, and assets. However, recent incidents have raised concerns about their safety, prompting the government to take precautionary measures to ensure smooth operations.

As per the new guidelines, all enumerators and supervisors must carry official identification cards and appointment letters while on duty. They have also been advised to avoid fieldwork during peak heat hours between 11 AM and 3 PM, keeping in mind the prevailing weather conditions, and to take necessary precautions against heat-related illnesses, including carrying ORS.

To strengthen safety in vulnerable areas, the SOP recommends that officials work in pairs, with supervisors required to monitor their teams on an hourly basis. In case of any hostility or perceived threat, personnel have been directed to disengage immediately, avoid confrontation, and report the matter to higher authorities.

The guidelines also stress close coordination with local police. Police stations will be provided with details of census staff, and enumerators will have access to emergency contact numbers. In sensitive areas, police personnel may accompany field staff to ensure their safety.

Additionally, the SOP highlights the importance of community engagement, urging census teams to coordinate with local leaders before commencing work in any locality to foster trust and cooperation.

The government has warned that any obstruction of census duties will attract strict legal action under the Census Act, 1948, which includes provisions for fines and imprisonment of up to three years.

Officials emphasized that strict adherence to the SOP is crucial for the timely and smooth completion of census operations across Odisha.