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Government mandates strict guidelines to protect enumerators amid rising incidents of violence
April 23, 2026: The Odisha government has issued a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure the safety of officials engaged in census work following recent attacks. The move comes after multiple incidents, including one in Dhenkanal where census officials were assaulted and their vehicle vandalised. Authorities confirmed that three individuals have been arrested in connection with the attack, while a similar incident was reported from Khurda.
According to Additional Chief Secretary Arabinda Padhee, the SOP aims to safeguard enumerators and supervisors during the ongoing Census 2027 operations. Officials have been directed to carry ID cards, work in teams, avoid peak heat hours, and remain in constant coordination with supervisors and local police. In sensitive areas, police personnel may be deployed to accompany them during field visits.
The guidelines also stress that in case of hostility, officials should immediately withdraw and report the matter, avoiding confrontation. The government warned that obstructing census work will invite legal action under the Census Act 1948, which provides for penalties including fines and imprisonment. The measures are aimed at ensuring smooth and secure completion of the nationwide exercise.