Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNT/NT/SNT) and the Census Debate
Who are DNT/NT/SNT Communities?
Denotified Tribes (DNTs) are communities that were once labelled as “criminal tribes” under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871. After Independence, this law was repealed in 1952, and these groups were officially “denotified.” Nomadic (NT) and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (SNT) are communities that continue to move seasonally, often living outside permanent settlements. As a result, they frequently remain excluded from standard village or urban administrative records.
Why are They Considered Ignored?
These communities continue to remain largely invisible in official data and welfare frameworks. A key issue is their fragmented classification across states: Some are listed under Scheduled Castes (SCs) Some under Scheduled Tribes (STs) Others under Other Backward Classes (OBCs) Many are not classified under any category This lack of uniform classification leads to the absence of reliable data on their population and socio-economic conditions. Estimated Population Various estimates suggest that the population of DNT/NT/SNT communities ranges between 8 crore and 14 crore in India. However, there is still no accurate nationwide data due to their exclusion from comprehensive Census enumeration.
Why is Census 2027 Important?
The upcoming Census presents a crucial opportunity to: Officially recognise these communities Classify them systematically Enumerate them as a distinct group Without proper enumeration, these communities remain excluded from targeted welfare schemes and adequate political representation.
Main Demands of DNT/NT Organisations
Community groups have put forward the following key demands: Separate identification in the Census Inclusion of a distinct category/column for DNT/NT/SNT communities Clear constitutional and administrative classification beyond SC/ST/OBC categories They argue that general caste enumeration alone is insufficient unless these communities are explicitly recognised.
Historical Background
The marginalisation of these communities can be traced back to colonial policies. Under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871, many nomadic groups were criminalised and subjected to surveillance and social stigma. Even after the repeal of the law, the stigma persisted, leading to continued social discrimination and administrative neglect.
Important Reports and Recommendations
The Renke Commission Report estimated the population of DNT/NT communities at around 10.74 crore. The Idate Commission Report identified nearly 1,200 communities and recommended their separate enumeration in the next Census.
Why Does Enumeration Matter?
Accurate enumeration can help in: Better targeting of welfare schemes Informed debates on reservation and representation Improved access to education, housing, and healthcare Ending their invisibility in public