This paper critically evaluates the plausibility and consistency of various findings of the 1974 Census of Bangladesh. However, the objective of the paper is not merely to reveal the defects per se. It purports to show how the methodology of research on various issues relating to population statistics can be significantly affected by the interpretation one gives to the data discrepancies and by the manner in which one attemp’s to correct those discrepancies. This is done as a part of a larger study which aims at analysing the mechanisms through which research, policy making and administration adjust to and thrive on poor quality of statistical data.