Disability Rights Groups Demand Inclusion of All 21 Categories in Census 2027

Disability rights organizations and advocacy groups submitted representations requesting the Union Government to capture all 21 categories of disabilities in the upcoming Census 2027 enumeration form. The current proposed draft form reportedly contains questions covering only 9 disability categories, sparking concerns among activists that millions of disabled citizens could be left uncounted.

The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016 expanded the recognized disability categories from 7 (under the 1995 Act) to 21. It introduced conditions like acid attack injuries, dwarfism, muscular dystrophy, and blood disorders like thalassemia and sickle cell disease. Accurate demographic data gathered through the national census is essential for policy planning, budget allocation, and welfare scheme implementation.

Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment had indicated earlier in Parliament that Census 2027 would record 21 disabilities. The 2011 Census recorded 2.68 crore persons with disabilities, accounting for 2.21% of India's population. Advocates emphasize that restricting data collection to 9 broad groups undermines the statutory rights granted under the RPWD Act 2016.

This story bridges constitutional governance, social justice, and demographic statistics. Aspirants should expect Prelims questions regarding the RPWD Act 2016 provisions, types of recognized disabilities, and census methodologies. For Mains GS Paper II (Social Justice), this issue highlights the challenges of administrative execution in ensuring inclusive governance and targeted social security delivery.