THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Daltonganj, May 2: Self-enumeration in the Census was carried out by DC Dilip Pratap Singh Shekhawat, SP Kapil Chaudhary, and DDC Md Jawed Hussain on Saturday at the Daltonganj collectorate.
There were mixed feelings on their faces—at times pensive, yet also pleasant with moments of chuckling. Some deliberations were held on the condition of houses made of ‘burnt brick’, as required in the 33-point charter of information.
Shekhawat, who is the Principal District Census Officer, asked mediapersons to try the process on their phones. A few, taking it as a challenge, began digitally filling in the 33 queries but left it halfway, while many chose to remain mute spectators.
It was DDC Jawed who, among the trio, first exclaimed with a monosyllable, “Done”.
Shekhawat noticed that journalists were watching them closely to see how much time self-enumeration would take. He then completed the process quickly, reiterating his appeal to mediapersons to try it themselves, saying it is simple and easy.
Query on ‘Parivar’ and Clarification
At one point, an official of the Census operations, instead of responding to a journalist’s query regarding sharing of a kitchen and the concept of ‘parivar’ (family), expressed inability to answer, creating an impression that the question was outlandish. Later, DDC Jawed stepped in and explained the concepts in a coherent and easy-to-understand manner.
The same Census operations official later approached the journalist after the briefing and clarified that he had not properly heard the question, which led to his earlier response. He sounded regretful.
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Awareness Drive in Schools
All government and private schools imparting education up to Class 12 have been directed to hold seminars to spread awareness about the Census.
“An order has been given to the District Education Officer to ensure seminars are conducted in schools with Classes 11 and 12 for the dissemination of knowledge and awareness about the Census among students,” informed the DC.
Data Privacy and Public Advisory
He reiterated that all household data collected during the Census will remain strictly confidential, leaving no room for doubt. He also urged maximum participation and wholehearted cooperation from the residents of Palamu.
Shekhawat further cautioned people to remain alert against cyber fraudsters who may attempt to deceive households in the name of OTPs, Aadhaar, PAN, or bank account details. “Never share such information,” he warned.