Section 18: Prohibition of debate of census and other population figures without authority

It shall not be lawful for any State Government to debate, discuss or deal with, or require the State office or any staff of the Commission to release to the State Government, population figures (or matters relating thereto) of the State in question, without the authority in writing of the Commission and any person who without such approval-(a) communicates or releases any information concerning population figures of a State to the State Government or members thereof; or
(b) tables for discussion at a meeting of the State Government the population figures of the State; or
(c) treats, engages in or takes part in debating the population figures of the State, at a meeting of the State Government,
is guilty of an offence under this section and is liable on conviction to imprisonment for a term of not less than five years without the option of a fine.