In a stark revelation, Karnataka State SC/ST, Nomadic Development Corporation chairperson Pallavi G voiced strong dissatisfaction on Thursday over the absence of basic amenities, including electricity, for numerous tribal families in Dakshina Kannada district.
Grievance Meeting Reveals Critical Infrastructure Gaps
Addressing the media after a grievance redressal meeting at the deputy commissioner's office in Mangaluru, Pallavi detailed her findings from visits to several tribal hamlets. She specifically mentioned touring the Malekudiya settlements at Ithilapela in Savanlu village, Belthangady taluk.
She pointed out that houses belonging to the tribal community in Ilthilapela lack not only electricity but also other fundamental facilities. During the meeting, she instructed officials from Mescom (Mangalore Electricity Supply Company), forest, social welfare, and other concerned departments to ensure power connections are provided at the earliest.
However, officials cited a technical hurdle, stating they had not received the necessary No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Centre to commence the electrification work. Pallavi also highlighted the severe monsoon hardships faced by the Malekudiya community due to a dilapidated bridge that gets submerged.
Land Rights and Identity Document Crisis
A pressing issue raised was the lack of land ownership. Several families continue to reside and cultivate land without possessing formal title deeds. Pallavi's interactions extended to members of the Ajila, Koraga, Maila, Baira, Nalike, and other communities.
Her visit to a Koraga colony in Panja, Sullia taluk, uncovered an alarming absence of crucial documents. Families there were found without Aadhaar cards, ration cards, or caste certificates, which effectively bars them from accessing various government welfare schemes.
Noting a general lack of awareness about government programs among SC/ST community members, Pallavi directed officials to conduct regular awareness campaigns every three months.
Call for Genealogical Study on Declining Koraga Population
A grave concern emerged from the Koraga community regarding a sharp decline in their population, attributed to poor health conditions. Pallavi stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive genealogical study involving medical experts to determine the exact causes behind this demographic drop.
"I will discuss this issue with Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, and Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa," she assured.
Additionally, Koraga community members in Madya village appealed for the allotment of two acres of land per family to sustain their livelihood. Separately, members of the Nalike community complained about individuals allegedly insulting their sacred 'Daivaradhane' practice by presenting the traditional 'Daiva Narthane' on public platforms. Pallavi stated this issue would be taken up with the chief minister, home minister, and law minister.
