*Activists Call for Unconditional Devadasi Survey*

Quick Summary

• Survey Initiative: Karnataka plans for a third survey of Devadasis, concentrated largely in 15 northern districts of the State.
• Community Plea: Devadasis and advocacy groups urge the government to conduct a door-to-door survey without imposing an age limit to ensure inclusivity.
• Past Surveys Data: Previous surveys in 1993-94 and 2007-08 identified around 22,873 and 46,660 Devadasis respectively. Community members claim several were excluded unintentionally due to stigma and procedural issues.
• Recent Concerns: Allegations arose that non-Devadasis were being listed unfairly in current records and receiving benefits.
• Stigma Impact: Fear of social stigma and threats from officials prevented many women from identifying as Devadasis during earlier surveys. Lack of awareness further compounded exclusion issues.
• Legal Framework: The practice was banned in Karnataka under the Karnataka Devadasis (Prohibition of Dedication) Act, 1982. Despite this ban, informal continuations have occurred at temple fairs across North Karnataka.

indian Opinion Analysis

The planned third survey represents an essential step toward understanding the scope of marginalized communities like the Devadasis who still face systemic challenges despite legal prohibitions on their dedication since 1982. Advocacy for door-to-door surveys reflects valid concerns regarding past exclusions based on arbitrary age limits or lack of outreach among younger or more transient populations. The inclusion of former community members in designing these efforts is critical not only for depiction but also to ensure historical accuracy.

Addressing practical factors such as migration patterns, stigma-related silence from affected individuals, or eligibility inaccuracies will be vital for achieving meaningful progress on rehabilitation programs promised under government schemes like pensions. The move could set a precedent for ensuring equitable access to social services through improved data collection practices while respecting cultural sensitivities around historically entrenched stigmas.

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