LUCKNOW, April 26 -- The district administration has initiated action against absenteeism in the ongoing census training, warning of FIRs against 694 enumerators and supervisors who skipped sessions on Saturday. Officials termed the large-scale absence a serious lapse in a national exercise and ordered immediate action. Training has been underway since April 21 across multiple Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) zones, but attendance saw a sharp decline on April 25. Data shows 122 absentees in Zone-1, 104 in Zone-2, 186 in Zone-3, 185 in Zone-4, 23 in Zone-5 and 74 in Zone-7. Officials said strict proceedings will be initiated against those who remained absent without valid reasons. Under the Census Act, 1948, refusal to perform assigned duties or negligence can invite up to three years' imprisonment, a fine, or both. The offence is cognisable, allowing police to register cases directly. Authorities have outlined a structured course of action. In the first phase, show-cause notices will be issued to all absentees. If responses are found unsatisfactory, departments will suspend the employees under service rules. Continued absence or refusal to perform duties may lead to FIRs under relevant legal provisions. Senior officials have directed zonal teams to ensure full attendance in upcoming sessions. Departments have also been instructed to monitor participation closely and submit daily compliance reports. The administration said food and essential facilities are being provided at all training centres, leaving no justification for absence. Officials added that census work requires accuracy and discipline, warning that negligence will invite strict legal and departmental action....