Civil judge visits Vettilakkolli tribal hamlet

Senior Civil Judge and District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Secretary Shabir Ibrahim M. visited Vettilakkolli tribal hamlet in Nilambur forest on Friday (February 6), as part of an effort to study the living conditions of the tribespeople.

His visit followed a directive from the Kerala State Legal Services Authority executive chairperson following reports of pathetic living conditions in the hamlet.

Mr. Ibrahim found that the 80-odd members of 28 tribal families were living in squalid conditions about three kilometres from the Akampadam forest station. “Only a 4×4 jeep can take you there through the difficult forest track,” said Mr. Ibrahim.

In a report he prepared, the judge has found that most houses were makeshift sheds made of bamboo and tarpaulin sheets, with no toilets, electricity or fencing against wild animals around the settlement.

The residents depend mainly on irregular employment under the MGNREGS scheme. Each family receives around 30 kg of rice a month, which they reported as insufficient. “They are largely surviving on rice gruel,” he said.

Supply of pulses and other food items through the Integrated Tribal Development Programme (ITDP) has reportedly been irregular for several months, largely due to transport difficulties, he said. “The tribespeople said that they spend around ₹1,500 to transport ration items by jeep.”

The judge found that many residents do not have Aadhaar cards, and several children lack birth certificates, though school transportation is arranged under the Vidyavahini project.

“The residents said they were not willing to relocate, but requested improved food supply and basic facilities,” said the judge. “It is reported that funds have been allocated for the construction of a road to the settlement, which is expected to improve accessibility and livelihood opportunities.”

The DLSA has issued notice to the Taluk Supply Officer to report on the feasibility of starting a mobile ration shop in the settlement and has also sought a report from the assistant executive engineer, Public Works department, regarding the status of the proposed road.