The religion-wise data sought from States by the High-Level Committee on Demographic Changes (HLCDC) appointed by the Union government “is a dangerous extension of the divisive agenda” practised by the Sangh Parivar, Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan said on Thursday.

In a social media post, he urged the Keralam government not to succumb to such pressures exerted by the Centre. “However, it is a matter of concern that the UDF government has not made any statement against the panel’s questionnaire,” he alleged.

The demography panel has asked the States to provide religion-wise break-up of details such as birth registrations, school enrolment, and property transactions.

The questionnaire reflects a planned move to further the Rashtriya Swayamasevak Sangh’s communal interests, Mr. Vijayan alleged. He alleged that the panel was created to reap political gains by creating a narrative about ‘unnatural demographic changes’ in border States and metro cities. This is an attempt to divide the people, alienate minorities, and destroy the secular nature of the nation, Mr. Vijayan said.

There is every need for secular-minded people to resist such attempts, he said.