A Census Must Count People, Not Diminish Their Dignity

The reported use of the term “Nihshaktata” in the Census 2027 notification has raised serious concerns and calls for urgent review. This is not merely a debate about terminology; it reflects a larger question about how India recognises persons with disabilities—as equal citizens and rights-holders, or through language that may suggest incapacity or helplessness.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, enacted to give effect to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), establishes a rights-based framework grounded in equality, dignity, non-discrimination, accessibility, autonomy and full participation in society. It recognises persons with disabilities as individuals entitled to exercise their rights on an equal basis with others, rather than as passive recipients of charity or sympathy.

The language used by government institutions should reflect these principles. Disability does not define a person's worth, potential or ability to contribute to society. Physical, social, attitudinal and institutional barriers can restrict participation. The responsibility of the State is to identify and remove these barriers, provide reasonable accommodation and create inclusive environments.

A national Census is far more than an exercise in enumeration. It helps shape public policy, resource allocation, service planning and the visibility of marginalised communities. Its terminology should therefore be consistent with the principles and spirit of the RPwD Act, 2016, and the rights-based approach it promotes.

The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India and the Ministry of Home Affairs should:

1. Review and clarify the terminology: Review the wording used in the relevant Census notification and ensure consistency across enumeration schedules, digital platforms, training materials and official communications.

2. Adopt respectful, rights-based language: Use terminology consistent with the RPwD Act, 2016, and avoid language that may reinforce stereotypes of incapacity, dependence or inferiority.

3. Consult persons with disabilities: Involve organisations of persons with disabilities (OPDs) and persons with disabilities themselves in reviewing terminology, questions and procedures that concern them.

4. Ensure an accessible and inclusive Census: Make enumeration processes accessible to persons with disabilities, including persons with deafblindness, intellectual disabilities and multiple disabilities, so that no one is excluded because of inaccessible procedures or inadequate enumeration practices.

India has made an important legislative commitment to disability rights. The challenge is to translate that commitment into consistent action across ministries, departments, public institutions and government programmes.

The principle is simple: “Nothing about us without us—and no one left behind.”

A Census must recognise persons with disabilities as equal citizens, rights-holders and contributors to society. The language used by national institutions should reflect the vision of the RPwD Act, 2016: an India founded on dignity, equality, inclusion and respect for human diversity.