Odisha Govt Issues SOP to Safeguard Census 2027 Functionaries

The Odisha Government has released a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure the safety of Census functionaries during the upcoming Houselisting and Housing Census 2027. Issued by Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the SOP outlines strict protocols for identification, heat precautions, and field safety.

Enumerators must carry official ID cards and appointment letters, work in pairs in sensitive areas, and report hostile situations immediately. Fieldwork is prohibited between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., with ORS and preventive measures provided to avoid dehydration. Supervisors will monitor teams hourly, while local police stations will receive enumerator details for real‑time coordination.

The SOP also emphasizes community engagement, requiring enumerators to consult local leaders before beginning work. Legal provisions under the Census Act, 1948 make obstruction of Census officials punishable with fines or imprisonment up to three years.

This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to secure and efficient Census operations across Odisha.