Denotified tribes, nomadic tribes and semi-nomadic tribes are pressing for a separate column in the 2027 Census, which will include caste enumeration for the first time since 1931. Community leaders want constitutional recognition through a distinct Schedule, arguing that their long-standing social exclusion cannot be captured adequately within existing SC, ST and OBC categories.
Background of Denotified Tribes
The communities trace their present identity to the repeal of the Criminal Tribes Act on 31 August 1952. The colonial law, first enacted in 1871 and amended later, had branded several mobile communities as criminal tribes. After denotification, these groups came to be known as denotified, nomadic and semi-nomadic tribes, or DNTs.
Demand for Separate Recognition
Leaders from several north Indian States say many DNT communities were wrongly absorbed into existing reserved categories over time.
- They argue that their distinct history and stigma require a separate constitutional Schedule.
- They want a separate census code or column to ensure accurate counting.
- They also seek sub-classification within the proposed separate Schedule to reflect graded backwardness.
Policy and Legal Context
The Social Justice Ministry has recommended that DNTs be included in the upcoming caste enumeration. The Office of the Registrar General of India has agreed to include them in the exercise. The government has not yet finalised the caste questions, but a preparatory exercise is planned before the second phase of the Census process.
Key Concerns of the Communities
Community representatives say many DNT groups remain excluded from welfare benefits because States and Union Territories often do not issue proper community certificates.
- They claim existing schemes have reached only a small section of eligible people.
- They say many nomadic groups still face police stigma and social discrimination.
- They argue that accurate enumeration is essential for quotas, schemes and policy planning.