VK News Today https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html The decision was taken at a special general meeting of the SGPC held at Teja Singh Samundri Hall in Amritsar NEW DELHI: The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) on Thursday endorsed the Akal Takht Sahib’s declaration of Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann as ‘Guru Dokhi’ (anti-Gur) and ‘Khalsa Panth Virodhi’ (anti-Khalsa Panth), while announcing a large Panthic gathering on 5 July to mobilise support for the directive and initiate legal action against the Aam Aadmi Party leader.The decision was taken at a special general meeting of the SGPC held at Teja Singh Samundri Hall in Amritsar, attended by Sikh religious leaders, jathedars, representatives of the five Takhts and granthis of Sri Harmandar Sahib. The meeting was chaired by SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami.The SGPC resolved to pursue legal action and register a police case against Mann, asserting that he no longer has the moral authority to continue as Punjab chief minister.The committee also announced that a major Panthic gathering would be held on 5 July at Gurdwara Manji Sahib Diwan Hall to make Sikhs aware of the Sri Akal Takht Sahib’s directive. It further resolved to launch extensive campaigns across every Assembly constituency and send preaching groups to encourage Sikhs to uphold the directive.Addressing the gathering, Akal Takht jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargajj said that Akal Takht Sahib is the supreme authority for Sikhs and obeying its directives is every Sikh’s duty.He also termed Mann’s challenge to the Akal Takht an affront to the institution.Gargajj alleged that governments were continuously attempting to gain direct control over Sikh institutions and called for unity among the Panth.Dhami alleged that the Punjab government’s agenda was aimed at targeting Panthic institutions.The SGPC also passed a resolution stating that the controversial video linked to the chief minister had caused widespread anger among Sikhs.”Rather than acknowledging his mistake before Akal Takht Sahib, the CM is repeatedly making false statements and disrespecting the highest temporal Sikh authority,” the resolution said.The resolution further emphasised that Akal Takht Sahib, established by Guru Hargobind Sahib, remains the supreme religious and Panthic authority of Sikhs, and that respecting its directives is the collective responsibility of the Sikh community.The controversy dates back to an edict issued by the Akal Takht on 15 June, when it declared Mann ‘Guru Dokhi’ and ‘Khalsa Panth Virodhi’ after claiming that a purported video showing a man resembling the chief minister engaging in acts deemed sacrilegious had been found to be “authentic” by two forensic laboratories.The issue originated earlier this year when the Akal Takht summoned Mann in January over his alleged remarks on ‘Guru ki Golak’ (gurdwara donation box) and over “objectionable activities” involving pictures of the Sikh Gurus and slain militant Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale in the purported video clip.Mann has consistently denied the allegations, reiterating that he was not the person seen in the video and claiming that the individual in the clip was wearing a mask resembling his face.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMaharashtra TET Exam Postponed After ‘Paper Leak’, 3 Arrested, CM Fadnavis Orders SIT ProbeFadnavis, Uddhav Share Flight Amid Shiv Sena Turmoil After Six MPs Switch Sides | WatchPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be Explained123Photostories6 high-protein cheela recipes for healthy weight lossEveryone else seems to have it figured out: Why young adults feel the pressure to be ‘sorted’ before they turn 30Bollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? Doctors warn this everyday habit could quietly affect your kidneys and metabolism10 beautiful baby boy names inspired by ancient gods and their powerful meanings7 simple ingredients to add more fibre to your rajmaIs your desk snack stash secretly affecting your blood sugar? Doctors explainInside Sunita Ahuja’s lavish Rs 16 crore home: Stunning living room, stylish bar, scenic balcony and more123Hot PicksChinese proverb of the dayJapanese Proverb Of The DayCGPSC SI Prelims 2026FIFA world cup 2026Rams FanRam Temple DonationNigerian Proverb of the dayUS Strike on IranKetan Agarwal MurderTop TrendingK BhagyarajMumbai Local Train DeathRam Temple Donation RowFIFA World Cup 2026NFL TradeUS Iran CeasefirePriyanka GandhiSergei IvanovMK StalinMumbai Local Train News Ireland stun West Indies to register historic first ever Women’s T20 World Cup win Pakistan’s Karachi rocked by explosion and gunfire; blast reported near universities Suvendu Adhikari with deceased BJP worker’s family (PTI) NEW DELHI: West Bengal chief minister and BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari on Saturday directed the state Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to ensure a speedy custodial trial into the alleged murder of BJP worker Prashanta Dey.Adhikari paid tribute to Dey at the deceased BJP worker’s residence in Howrah’s Bagnan and met his bereaved family. He subsuequently a high-level review meeting at the local police station with senior police and civil administration officials, including the IG, DIG, SP, and the district magistrate.Later, the chief minister addressed reporters and announced that 10 of the 51 people named in the FIR had been arrested so far, directing the CID to trace the remaining accused.”I have directed the CID, in no ambiguous terms, to find the remaining 41 accused, even if they are hiding in the depths of hell. The chargesheet must be filed while the suspects are in custody, and a custody trial must be initiated. Once convicted, they must be punished as per provisions of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita),” Adhikari said.He also noted that a 10-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the CID is handling the probe and stated he would appoint a Special Public Prosecutor to ensure maximum punishment for the guilty.“Criminals have gained courage to act with impunity since they were never appropriately punished. Unlike the rule under the previous regime in the state, we have established the rule of law. The murderers will be swiftly brought to justice with exemplary punishment so that such crimes are not repeated in future,” the BJP leader asserted, targeting the previous Trinamool Congress (TMC) government.TMC was voted out in the April assembly elections, ending its 15 years in power in West Bengal. The victorious BJP formed its first government in the state, with Adhikari, a former Trinamool member, taking over as chief minister.Meanwhile, the CM also announced financial assistance of Rs 5 lakh for Dey’s family—over and above the ₹Rs 4 lakh already provided by the district administration—and a contractual government job for the sister of the deceased.Dey (39), the vice-president of BJP’s Booth 197 under Bagnan Mandal-5, was allegedly beaten to death by local TMC miscreants on June 17 following post-poll clashes between the two camps. His family alleged that he was attacked while on his way to attend a social function.The victim sustained severe head trauma and was declared dead on arrival at Bagnan Rural Hospital, while three other BJP workers suffered critical injuries.Family members of the deceased claimed that the prime accused in the case, local Trinamool Congress leader Mafizul Rahman, was among those still at large.“I have also asked the DM to prepare a fact-finding report on the illegal activities these miscreants were involved in, including forceful land grabs and unauthorised property constructions from ill-gotten money. I have been assured that lawful action will be taken against them on those counts as well,” Adhikari said.“These criminals have for a long time escaped the law because of vote bank politics and religious considerations,” he added.(with PTI inputs)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosMaharashtra TET Exam Postponed After ‘Paper Leak’, 3 Arrested, CM Fadnavis Orders SIT ProbeFadnavis, Uddhav Share Flight Amid Shiv Sena Turmoil After Six MPs Switch Sides | WatchPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be Explained123Photostories6 high-protein cheela recipes for healthy weight lossEveryone else seems to have it figured out: Why young adults feel the pressure to be ‘sorted’ before they turn 30Bollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? Doctors warn this everyday habit could quietly affect your kidneys and metabolism10 beautiful baby boy names inspired by ancient gods and their powerful meanings7 simple ingredients to add more fibre to your rajmaIs your desk snack stash secretly affecting your blood sugar? Doctors explainInside Sunita Ahuja’s lavish Rs 16 crore home: Stunning living room, stylish bar, scenic balcony and more123Hot PicksChinese proverb of the dayJapanese Proverb Of The DayCGPSC SI Prelims 2026FIFA world cup 2026Rams FanRam Temple DonationNigerian Proverb of the dayUS Strike on IranKetan Agarwal MurderTop TrendingK BhagyarajMumbai Local Train DeathRam Temple Donation RowFIFA World Cup 2026NFL TradeUS Iran CeasefirePriyanka GandhiSergei IvanovMK StalinMumbai Local Train News Auqib Nabi sends strong message to selectors with 4-wicket haul in unofficial Test against Sri Lanka A Has Kriti Sanon broken up with boyfriend Kabir Bahia? Here’s the truth behind his viral photos with another girl Lock Upp 2: Akanksha Chamola announces divorce with Gaurav Khanna; says, ‘We have been living separately for the past one year’ ‘Silicon Valley of North India’: Ashwini Vaishnaw sees Jewar emerging as chip manufacturing hub Khushbu Sundar strongly reacts to backlash for posting photos from daughter’s wedding after K Bhagyaraj’s demise: ‘Why follow me?’ Pisces, Weekly Horoscope, June 28 to July 04, 2026: Week of recognition and improved professional conditions expected Why Ukraine’s biggest attacks could make Putin even more dangerous: The ‘drowning man’ warning Aquarius, Weekly Horoscope, June 28 to July 04, 2026: Unexpected guests add the charm this week Telangana student found dead in London after attending birthday party Meet Rahul Sahota, Indian entrepreneur whose Arizona restaurant has no freezers or microwave: ‘Came to America, no English, no money, just a dream’ Jun 27, 2026, 21:47 IST Double hat-trick! 9-year-old Rohan takes six wickets in an over, scripts rare feat Pregnant woman dies by suicide after husband demands DNA test for unborn child in Telangana Indian man in UK finds out his car had no AC, no space to install it: 45 degrees in Delhi is different because… Jun 27, 2026, 21:16 IST Iran’s inflation surges to 88.6% as war deepens economic crisis Michael Dell gives update on Dell’s plan to move company’s base to Texas, days after ‘Welcome Home’ message from Governor Gregg Abott Imran Khan opens up on telling daughter Imara about his relationship with Lekha Washington: ‘Trying to conceal anything from a child is unhealthy’ Capricorn, Weekly Horoscope, June 28 to July 04, 2026: Brace for a challenging start to the week ‘Not targeted at India’: US envoy Sergio Gor defends Trump’s H-1B visa changes Under-construction guest house slab collapses in UP; 8 injured, several feared trapped File photo: Uddhav Thackeray, Amit Shah, Devendra Fadnavis (PTI) NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday alleged that the BJP’s so-called “Operation Tiger”—the defection of six Lok Sabha MPs from his faction to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena earlier this week—was aimed at keeping Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, a BJP member, “in check.”Thackeray accused Union home minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah of planning the defections to prevent Fadnavis from becoming a contender for the prime minister’s chair.”The MPs defected despite there being no elections. Why didn’t they join the BJP instead? I suspect this is actually ‘Operation Devendra.’ Shah might have orchestrated it to keep Fadnavis at a certain level so that he does not enter the race for the prime minister’s post, ” Thackeray said at a rally in Hingoli, a constituency represented by one of the six former Shiv Sena (UBT) members who switched sides.If the need arises tomorrow, these rebels will vote for Amit Shah for the post of prime minister,” he added.The former Maharashtra chief minister also claimed that the so-called “Operation Tiger”—a reference to the tiger symbol of the undivided Shiv Sena—was aimed at helping the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) secure a two-thirds majority in the Lok Sabha to facilitate the passage of a delimitation bill.”They want to get the delimitation bill passed so that the entire country falls into the hands of north India. It does not matter how many farmers commit suicide, how many paper leaks take place or how many students end their lives. What they want is MPs,” Uddhav Thackeray remarked.The Shiv Sena (UBT) supremo is touring the constituencies of the six MPs who joined the Shiv Sena, a BJP ally. Deptuty chief minister Shinde’s rebellion in June 2022 split the then-undivided Shiv Sena, led to the fall of the Uddhav Thackeray government in Maharashtra, and paved the way for Shinde to serve as chief minister for the next two years.The Election Commission recognises Shinde’s faction as the official Shiv Sena.Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray’s remarks came a day after he found himself on the same IndiGo flight as Fadnavis, as they travelled from Mumbai to Nagpur, the chief minister’s hometown.This triggered political speculation, which the BJP played down, saying the two leaders are political rivals but are not personal enemies.(With PTI inputs)Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFadnavis, Uddhav Share Flight Amid Shiv Sena Turmoil After Six MPs Switch Sides | WatchPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be ExplainedCoaching Firing Case: Court Stays Khan Sir’s Arrest Till June 30, Hearing Ahead In Firing Case123PhotostoriesBollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? Doctors warn this everyday habit could quietly affect your kidneys and metabolism10 beautiful baby boy names inspired by ancient gods and their powerful meanings7 simple ingredients to add more fibre to your rajmaIs your desk snack stash secretly affecting your blood sugar? Doctors explainInside Sunita Ahuja’s lavish Rs 16 crore home: Stunning living room, stylish bar, scenic balcony and more5 budget-friendly décor ideas for a small balcony you’ll actually want to use7 foods Indian households once made entirely from scratch123Hot PicksChinese proverb of the dayJapanese Proverb Of The DayCGPSC SI Prelims 2026FIFA world cup 2026Rams FanRam Temple DonationNigerian Proverb of the dayUS Strike on IranKetan Agarwal MurderTop TrendingK BhagyarajMumbai Local Train DeathRam Temple Donation RowFIFA World Cup 2026NFL TradeUS Iran CeasefirePriyanka GandhiSergei IvanovMK StalinMumbai Local Train News History at Kalinga Stadium! Sarvesh Kushare breaks men’s high jump national record, becomes first Indian to clear 2.30m | More sports News Smriti Mandhana reveals India’s mindset ahead of must-win Australia clash in Women’s T20 World Cup When K Bhagyaraj and Amitabh Bachchan had an argument over a scene in ‘Aakhree Raasta’, the superstar then said, ‘you know the pulse of the audience’ Sagittarius, Weekly Horoscope, June 28 to July 04, 2026: Caution is advised against rushing into impulsive decisions ‘Important to place defence minister’s address in full, proper context’: Centre on row over Op Sindoor deaths Who is the head of your family? It’s more complicated than it sounds NEW DELHI: When India’s Census officials started knocking on doors across the country, they asked dozens of questions that most people answered without much thought. How many people live here? What is your occupation? What is your highest level of education?Then comes a question which often makes families pause and think about the answer.Who is the head of the household?The question means different things to different people.For some families, the answer comes instinctively: the father or the grandfather (in joint families). For others, it is the eldest grandparent, even if they no longer work or make household decisions. In many homes, everyone looks at each other before naming someone. Increasingly, there are households where the woman earns the most, manages the finances, raises the children and takes every major decision—yet the family may still identify the husband or an elderly father as the “head.”The awkward silence surrounding this seemingly simple question has resurfaced as India undergoes a survey for the upcoming Census. Many citizens have questioned why such a category still exists, particularly when there is no clear understanding of who actually qualifies as the “head” of a family.The confusion is understandable. The Census website defines the “head of household” as “The person recognized by the family as the head, who manages household affairs and makes important decisions. The head of the household need not necessarily be the eldest male member, but can be of any gender or a younger member normally residing in the household.”The definition attempts to move beyond the traditional image of the patriarch. Yet, experts argue that in practice, the question still carries decades of social baggage. While legally meaningless, it continues to reflect—and sometimes reinforce—deeply embedded ideas about authority inside Indian homes.We reached out to the Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner to understand what was the definition and purpose of this question in the survey. We are still awaiting a response and will update the story accordingly.The larger question, therefore, is not simply who the head of the household is? It is whether the idea itself still makes sense. The invisible weight of a simple questionIf the category has no legal standing, why does it continue to generate debate? Because, sociologists argue, the phrase “head of the household” is far from neutral.”The HoH is a socially existing category which has found its way into statistical exercises, primarily to identify the person who is considered capable of answering questions about the socio-economic status of a household,” said Aardra Surendran, sociologist and teacher at IIT Hyderabad.”As such, therefore, it is not a sociological category, but a patriarchally inflected common sensical term denoting conventional power dynamics within family units.”That distinction is important.The census may only intend to identify someone who can answer questions accurately. But the language it uses inevitably draws upon social norms that have historically privileged men as household decision-makers.”Academic research, particularly feminist academic research, has questioned the assumptions inherent in this kind of framing of the household,” said Surendran.If all information about a family is routed through one designated individual, important aspects of household life may never be captured accurately.”It has also pointed to the fact that even the basic purpose of data collection may be incomplete if you ask all questions to only the head of the household – as this person may not have a comprehensive understanding of many aspects of household life, handled typically by other members of the family, mostly women.”The consequences, she notes, have been significant. “This has in the past led to underreporting of many aspects of women’s and children’s lives, including nutrition, their contributions to household survival and issues of domestic abuse and violence.”A category designed for convenience can therefore end up shaping the very data governments rely upon for policymaking.Recognition versus realityOne reason the debate still persists is that recognition inside families often differs from actual decision-making.A retired father may still be introduced as the head of the household even though his daughter-in-law manages finances, his son earns the income and his wife takes everyday decisions.Former JNU School of Social Sciences Dean Amitabh Kundu says this distinction has always existed. “The census generally goes by who is recognised as the head of the family by family members and not who is managing or is the key decision maker.”That means families often identify people based on respect, age or tradition rather than actual authority.”Sometimes, the elderly person, who is 80 years old, doesn’t have anything to do with decisions of the household. Then if the family decides that this person is the head of the household, no one can counter the question.”Only when family members themselves cannot agree should the enumerator probe further by asking who manages the household or earns the income, he said.In many ways, this reflects how Indian families function. Authority is often symbolic. Decision-making is often shared. Recognition may belong to one person while responsibility rests with another.The census simply records whichever version the family chooses to present.Families have changed. Has the question?India today looks very different from the India of previous census decades. The last Census exercise took place 15 years ago.Over the years, joint families have steadily given way to nuclear households. Women participation in the workforce has increased significantly. Multiple generations may live separately but remain financially connected. Decision-making itself has become far more collaborative.”With changing family dynamics and also large-scale male migration, leaving women in charge of agriculture and other household responsibilities, the dynamics of decision making is undergoing significant shifts, which statistical exercises need to be able to adequately account for to ensure more accurate data collection,” Surendran said.The problem is not merely that families have changed. It is that the category itself assumes households can be represented by one individual.In the Indian setup, children often support ageing parents while parents continue to occupy symbolic positions of authority.A social category, not a legal oneOne of the biggest misconceptions surrounding the Census question is that identifying someone as the head of the household somehow gives them legal recognition or authority.It does not.”There is no uniform legal definition of ‘head of family’ or ‘head of household’ under Indian law,” explains Shwetta Lohia, legal officer at Delhi department of women and child development. “The term is generally used for administrative, statistical, or welfare purposes, and its meaning depends on the context in which it is used.”Rupali Jain, Supreme Court and Delhi High Court lawyer, pointed out that Indian law only recognises a comparable concept in very specific contexts, such as ‘Karta’ of a Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), which is a separate legal institution governing joint family property.Outside such limited situations, there is no overarching law that creates a universal status of “head of family.”Even census records themselves carry little legal value.”Identification in the Census is solely for statistical purposes under the Census Act, 1948. It confers no legal rights, powers, or liabilities in property, inheritance, guardianship, or family matters,” Jain said.In other words, if a person’s name appears as the head of the household in census records, it cannot by itself establish ownership, inheritance, guardianship or decision-making authority in court.The law, therefore, is surprisingly clear. The confusion lies elsewhere — in society.Does the question still have value?A single “head” may no longer exist in any meaningful sense. However, not everyone believes the category should disappear altogether.Kundu argues that while it may have limited practical use for most census analysis, it still carries value for researchers studying social structures. “I think this question is losing its relevance gradually, but if somebody wants to do some sociological research, this question gains relevance.”He points to examples where identifying who families recognise as household heads can reveal interesting demographic patterns, such as higher proportions of elderly men continuing to be identified as heads in certain states. “But if somebody wants to work on workforce data, literacy data, I don’t think this question has any meaning,” he said.In that sense, the question may have shifted from being administratively useful to becoming sociologically revealing.While it no longer tells us much about who makes decisions, it still tells us who society chooses to recognise.Can statistics reinforce social bias?The Census is often viewed as an objective exercise. Yet every survey category reflects the assumptions of their time.”It has been established that the Census and other large scale data gathering exercises may reinforce many of the biases and prejudices present in societies globally – biases in terms of categories of gender, race, ethnicity etc have been identified in many other parts of the world as well,” Surendran said, adding that scholarly research has also helped correct many such biases over time.As societies evolve, so must the questions governments ask. Otherwise, outdated categories risk preserving outdated ways of thinking.Perhaps the problem is the word “head”Interestingly, none of the experts argue that the census should stop identifying someone who can provide household information.Rather, they question whether calling that person “head” remains appropriate.Surendran suggested a simple but significant change. “Since the instrumental purpose of identifying a HoH is accurate data collection, the important corrective would be to identify the relevant member(s) of the household who are able to furnish such information, and rename the category as a relevant Point of Contact (PoC).”That shift would better reflect the actual purpose of the exercise.Instead of asking families to identify a symbolic authority figure, the Census would simply identify the person—or even persons—best equipped to answer its questions accurately.The change may appear semantic. But language shapes perception. And perception shapes data.More than a census questionPerhaps that is why this small Census entry continues to spark outsized debate.Legally, it changes nothing. Administratively, it serves a practical purpose. Sociologically, however, it opens a window into how Indians continue to understand authority, gender and family itself.For some households, naming a head is effortless. For others, it prompts discussion. For still others, it exposes an uncomfortable gap between who carries responsibility and who receives recognition.As Indian families become smaller, more egalitarian and increasingly diverse, the idea of one unquestioned household head feels less like a universal reality and more like a relic of an older social order.The Census may not be trying to preserve patriarchy. But when a question assumes that every family has a singular “head,” it inevitably carries echoes of a time when households were expected to revolve around one recognised authority.Perhaps the real question India should now be asking is not who the head of the family is. It is whether families need one at all.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorNatasha SinghPrincipal Digital Content ProducerEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFadnavis, Uddhav Share Flight Amid Shiv Sena Turmoil After Six MPs Switch Sides | WatchPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be ExplainedCoaching Firing Case: Court Stays Khan Sir’s Arrest Till June 30, Hearing Ahead In Firing Case123PhotostoriesBollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? Doctors warn this everyday habit could quietly affect your kidneys and metabolism10 beautiful baby boy names inspired by ancient gods and their powerful meanings7 simple ingredients to add more fibre to your rajmaIs your desk snack stash secretly affecting your blood sugar? Doctors explainInside Sunita Ahuja’s lavish Rs 16 crore home: Stunning living room, stylish bar, scenic balcony and more5 budget-friendly décor ideas for a small balcony you’ll actually want to use7 foods Indian households once made entirely from scratch123Hot PicksChinese proverb of the dayJapanese Proverb Of The DayCGPSC SI Prelims 2026FIFA world cup 2026Rams FanRam Temple DonationNigerian Proverb of the dayUS Strike on IranKetan Agarwal MurderTop TrendingK BhagyarajMumbai Local Train DeathRam Temple Donation RowFIFA World Cup 2026NFL TradeUS Iran CeasefirePriyanka GandhiSergei IvanovMK StalinMumbai Local Train News Millie Bobby Brown recalls apologising to her ‘Stranger Things’ co-stars after finale: ‘It was a very hard time for me’ | Ketan Agarwal murder case: New twist as viral cricket stadium video puts Siya Goyal, Chetan Chaudhary back in focus Kishan Reddy also accused Congress, AIMIM of linking revision to religion NEW DELHI: Union coal minister G Kishan Reddy on Saturday accused Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy of attempting to provoke Muslims, disturb law and order and derail the Election Commission’s ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in the state.Addressing reporters in Hyderabad, the senior BJP leader also alleged that the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) was intimidating booth level officers (BLOs) in the city’s old quarters to obstruct household surveys, while claiming that the ruling Congress and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) were backing the party.Speaking to reporters, Kishan Reddy said, “The Congress government and the chief minister himself are trying to threaten. At a recent meeting of Muslims, (he said) if you don’t take precautions, you will lose your votes… An attempt was made to provoke Muslims. The Chief Minister himself is attempting to disturb law and order, hurt SIR process and to link it with religion.”The Union minister further alleged that Rohingya migrants and people from Pakistan and Bangladesh possessed voter identity cards, Public Distribution System ration cards and other official documents in Hyderabad, while accusing non-BJP parties of remaining silent on the issue.According to him, there were Rohingyas and instances of duplicate voting in several residential colonies in Hyderabad, and it was the Election Commission’s responsibility to address such irregularities.Kishan Reddy maintained that the SIR exercise should continue despite what he described as “false allegations” levelled by some political parties against the Election Commission.He also accused the Congress government of undermining its own officials by questioning the revision process, even though it was being carried out by state government employees.”Though the SIR is carried out by the Telangana government employees, he alleged that the CM, Congress and BRS are ‘spreading false information’ over the exercise as they do not trust the staff,” he said.Alleging interference by the AIMIM, Kishan Reddy claimed that the party was preventing BLOs from carrying out door-to-door verification in Hyderabad’s old city.”In the old city, the AIMIM is trying to threaten BLOs, saying you should not visit houses and take up survey of houses. (AIMIM says) we will give you the filled up forms, you should not remove any votes. They are into this during the last four months. Congress, BRS are fully cooperating in this,” he said.He asserted that the revision would not be conducted according to the wishes of the AIMIM and said the BJP would stand by government employees if they were threatened while carrying out the exercise.The BJP leader also accused the Congress and the BRS of seeking the AIMIM’s political support, referring to past remarks by Revanth Reddy in which, he alleged, the Chief Minister had said “Congress means Muslims and Muslims mean Congress” and described himself as “Revanth Uddin”.Questioning the Congress’ criticism of the electoral roll revision, Kishan Reddy asked why the party objected to the SIR in states such as West Bengal and Bihar but not in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, where similar exercises had also been undertaken.He further alleged that non-BJP parties were attempting to create unnecessary doubts about the Election Commission for political gain.The allegations come amid an escalating political row over the SIR exercise in Telangana. The Telangana Congress has raised concerns over the revision process, alleging that it could lead to the deletion of genuine voters from the electoral rolls.Earlier this week, chief minister Revanth Reddy instructed Congress ministers, MLAs, MPs and constituency in-charges to remain vigilant during the SIR process and warned of strict action against any party leader who failed to follow organisational instructions. He issued the directions during a video conference after reports emerged alleging the deletion of genuine voters’ names from electoral rolls.Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president Mahesh Kumar Goud recently said the Congress would protect the voting rights of citizens and ensure that no eligible voter was disenfranchised during the exercise. He alleged that the revision process was being used to target “secular votes” and said the party was monitoring developments closely.The Congress has also urged the Election Commission to conduct the exercise transparently and without haste, arguing that no major elections are due in the state and that there is sufficient time for a comprehensive revision.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosFadnavis, Uddhav Share Flight Amid Shiv Sena Turmoil After Six MPs Switch Sides | WatchPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be ExplainedCoaching Firing Case: Court Stays Khan Sir’s Arrest Till June 30, Hearing Ahead In Firing Case123PhotostoriesBollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? 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The accused have been identified as Rajeev Shah, Akash Kumar, and Dheeraj Kumar.Separately, politics intensified over the postponement, with the opposition targeting the ruling BJP, which also leads the government at the Centre, over repeated allegations of paper leaks. In May, NEET-UG was also affected by an alleged question paper leak, leading to a re-examination held on June 21.Congress MP and leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi alleged that the country’s examination system has been turned into a “system of extortion.””Another paper leak. Another exam cancelled. This time, Maharashtra’s TET. The country’s education and examination system has been turned into a system of extortion, leaving every youth in the country insecure. This is not just a paper leak, it is the theft of the youth’s future,” Rahul Gandhi posted on X.AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal accused the BJP of “stealing everywhere”, referencing the NEET-UG paper leak and the alleged misappropriation of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh – another BJP-led state.”Temples aren’t being managed. Exams can’t even be conducted under them. How will they run the country? The country is not safe in their hands, friends,” Kejriwal wrote in his post.The Maharashtra State Council of Examination (MSCE) on Saturday postponed the Maharashtra TET on the eve of the examination after a suspected question paper leak surfaced during a police investigation in Bhiwandi, according to an official statement.MSCE stated that despite implementing all necessary security measures in light of the irregularities reported during the NEET-UG examination, confidential inputs revealed that certain individuals in Bhiwandi were in possession of information related to the TET question paper.The examination was scheduled to be held at 1,028 centres across the state. A fresh date for the test will be announced later, the council added.Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosPM Modi Meets Jonathan, World’s Oldest Living Land Animal, During Seychelles VisitAkal Takht Summons Sikh MLAs; Bhagwant Mann Calls Crucial AAP Huddle In Punjab | WatchIndian Vessels Desh Suraksha, SSL Kaveri Sail Through Hormuz; Third Takes U-TurnDMK Alliance Rocked As Vaiko’s MDMK Quits SPA After Nine Years Of Partnership | WatchClass 12 Student Sarthak Sidhant, Who Exposed CBSE Tender Procedure, Launches 1.66 Cr Record Portal’India Deserves Permanent Seat At UNSC’: Seychelles Foreign Minister Ahead Of PM Modi’s VisitFormer CM Gehlot Targets BJP Over Kanhaiya Lal Case, Says Justice Still Eludes FamilySonia Gandhi Slams Modi Govt Over Gaza, Says India’s ‘Silence And Inaction’ Cannot Be ExplainedCoaching Firing Case: Court Stays Khan Sir’s Arrest Till June 30, Hearing Ahead In Firing CaseGiorgia Meloni Reveals ‘Million Votes In New Delhi’ Joke In New Book, Recalls 2023 India Welcome123PhotostoriesBollywood stars who follow the early dinner rule for fitness: From Anushka Sharma to Akshay Kumar5 common mistakes people make while buying diamondsFrom the ‘Mahakumbh of Tantrics’ to the sacred red water: 5 fascinating facts about Ambubachi Mela, India’s unique Menstruation FestivalEating dinner too late? 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