Karnataka: Adivasi groups petition against inclusion of new communities in tribal corporation
Representatives argue that adding the Gond and Raj Gond communities could reduce welfare access for the 12 original tribal groups.
Adivasi representatives in Hunsur have petitioned a Scheduled Tribes Welfare Department official regarding a proposal to include the Gond and Raj Gond communities in Karnataka’s tribal corporation, according to Urban Acres.
The petition, led by Adivasi Janata Parliament president Harsha, alleges that the state government established the corporation to focus on the development of 12 specific tribal communities. The representatives questioned the basis for adding two more groups and argued that such a move could limit access to welfare programmes for the original members.
The 12 communities identified in the petition are Jenu Kuruba, Betta Kuruba, Yerava, Panjari Yerava, Paniya Yerava, Malekudiya, Iruliga, Soliga, Koraga, Hasalaru, Gowdalu and Siddi. The petitioners claimed that tribal people already receive limited benefits from the current reservation system and alleged that efforts are underway to add 48 communities to the Scheduled Tribe list.
The group requested internal safeguards for the institution, suggesting the chief minister should lead the corporation for its first three years. They proposed that a chairperson should subsequently be appointed through an election to support the development and self-employment of tribal youth.
The submission included Jayappa, president of the Tribal Farmers’ Association; Vitthal Nanachchi of the Betta Kuruba Traditional Association; Tekla Hadi Shivanna, president of the Hadi Forest Rights Committee; and Basavaraj. The state government has not yet responded to the petition.