They are used Locally available building materials such as wood, stone, soil, straw, grass, and bamboo for construction. The construction techniques have evolved over generations through pragmatic design. Agriculture is the primary occupation of the tribes in Wayanad. Each tribal habitat has a unique identity, which is also reflected in their settlements.Socio economic conditions of the community are low literacy, economic instablility and lack of political empowerment.
Wayanad is home to seven tribal communities: Paniyar, Adiyar, Kurichyar, Mullukkurumar, Kattunaikkar, Oorali, Kurumar, and Wayanadan Kadar. Kerala has five Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs): Kattunaikan, Cholanaikan, Kurumbas, Kadars, and Koragas. Among these, two—Kattunaikan and Kadar—reside in Wayanad. The Paniya community constitutes the largest tribal population in the district.
Historically, both the Paniya and Adiya communities endured the brutal reality of slavery. The Mulliyoorkkavu festival once served as a platform for the purchase of Paniya and Adiya individuals for bonded labor. After taking an oath, buyers would acquire them for a year, only to transfer them to another landlord the following year. Exploiting their deep-rooted faith and honesty, landlords perpetuated this cycle of servitude for generations.
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The landlords permitted these tribal communities to reside in the forests, allowing them to cultivate the land. However, once the land was developed and made fertile through their labor, the landlords forcibly evicted them and took possession of the land for agricultural purposes. This systematic exploitation not only deprived the tribes of their rightful land but also pushed them into a cycle of displacement and marginalization, stripping them of their traditional livelihood and connection to their ancestral lands..
The socio-economic condition of the tribal communities in Wayanad remains extremely distressing, leaving them in a perpetual state of hardship and deprivation. Generations of systemic exploitation, land alienation, and social exclusion have pushed them into poverty, forcing them to struggle for survival with limited access to basic necessities such as education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihoods.
In search of better opportunities, many tribal people from Wayanad migrated to Kodagu (Coorg) in Karnataka, seeking work as laborers in plantations and farms. However, their vulnerability made them easy targets for exploitation, as they were often employed without proper contracts, denied fair wages, and subjected to inhumane working conditions. Without any legal or social protection, these workers lived in precarious conditions, facing extreme poverty and deprivation.
Tragically, numerous young tribal workers lost their lives due to exhaustion, malnutrition, work-related hazards, and the lack of medical care. Reports of sudden and mysterious deaths among migrant tribal laborers in Kodagu raised concerns, yet little was done to address their plight.
The role of middlemen, agents, subcontractors, and landlords in this exploitative system cannot be overlooked. These intermediaries lured desperate tribal families with
false promises of decent wages and a better life, only to trap them in a cycle of bonded labor. Once recruited, these laborers had no bargaining power and were often subjected to physical and psychological abuse. Many were forced to work under debt bondage, making it nearly impossible for them to return to their homeland.
This long-standing exploitation has had a devastating impact on Wayanad’s tribal communities, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization. Despite various government policies and welfare programs, the lack of proper implementation and awareness has left many tribal families without the support they desperately need. A sustainable and rights-based approach is essential to break this cycle, ensuring land rights, fair wages, access to education, healthcare, and dignified employment for Wayanad’s tribal population.
The Plight of Wayanad’s Tribal Migrant Workers: A Tale of Exploitation and Injustice
For generations, the tribal youth of Wayanad have been migrating to various regions in Karnataka, including Shimoga, Madikeri, Siddapur, Virajpet, and Gonikoppal—collectively referred to as Kudak by the tribal communities. Drawn by the promise of work in ginger, banana, and paddy cultivation, they left their native lands in search of a livelihood. However, their journey often led them into a brutal cycle of exploitation and bonded labor.
In Kudak, the tribal laborers referred to the landlords as Soukars—a term that, in reality, masked the oppressive power dynamics at play. These landlords, along with middlemen and contractors, systematically trapped the workers in exploitative conditions. Deprived of fair wages, many were forced to toil for meager or even nonexistent pay. Food scarcity and poor living conditions further worsened their plight, leaving them in a state of utter helplessness.
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Despite the existence of numerous labor laws and protective measures intended to safeguard the rights of migrant workers and tribal communities, these legal provisions remained largely ineffective in practice. The tribal laborers continued to endure slavery-like conditions, often working under coercion without any means of escape. Reports of physical abuse, intimidation, and extreme neglect were common, yet justice remained elusive for the victims.
The situation turned even more alarming with the rising number of mysterious deaths, disappearances, and even murders of tribal laborers in Kudak. Hundreds of cases have been reported over the years, painting a grim picture of the severe exploitation these communities face. However, due to systemic neglect and the lack of legal intervention, most of these cases remain unresolved. The remoteness of the locations, coupled with the marginalized status of the tribal workers, made it easy for landlords and contractors to suppress evidence and avoid legal repercussions.
A Systemic Failure: The Unheard Cries of the Tribal Workforce
The continued suffering of Wayanad’s tribal migrant workers is a stark reminder of the deep-rooted socio-economic disparities that persist despite legal frameworks designed to prevent such injustices. Bonded labor, though outlawed, still thrives in the shadows, perpetuated by poverty, illiteracy, and the absence of effective enforcement mechanisms. The lack of awareness among the tribal workers about their rights further exacerbates their vulnerability.
The stories of those who have lost their lives or gone missing in Kudak serve as a tragic testament to the ongoing exploitation of indigenous communities. The need for strong legal action, proactive government intervention, and community empowerment has never been more urgent. Ensuring land rights, fair wages, education, healthcare, and sustainable employment opportunities within Wayanad is crucial to breaking this cycle of forced migration and bonded labor. Only through collective action and policy reforms can the silent suffering of Wayanad’s tribal communities be brought to an end, restoring dignity and justice to those who have been marginalized for far too long.
The Tragic Death of Kolu: A Stark Reminder of Tribal Exploitation
In 2005, the lifeless body of Kolu, a young tribal man from Choondappady Colony in Noolpuzha Panchayat, Wayanad, was discovered in Kudak, Karnataka. His death was not an isolated incident but a chilling reflection of the widespread exploitation and suffering endured by tribal migrants from Wayanad. Kolu’s fate, like that of many others, was sealed by the harsh realities of bonded labor, systemic neglect, and the indifference of authorities.
A fact-finding team visited the site where Kolu’s body was found, hoping to uncover the circumstances leading to his tragic end. Their investigation painted a grim picture of the conditions in which tribal laborers were forced to survive. Subjected to relentless toil in plantations, deprived of fair wages, and often denied even the most basic necessities, these workers were trapped in an unending cycle of oppression. The landlords, known as Soukars among the tribals, wielded immense power, exploiting their labor while stripping them of dignity and rights.
A Pattern of Neglect and Dispossession
Kolu’s death was not an anomaly—it was part of a disturbing pattern. Hundreds of tribal youth from Wayanad migrate to Kudak and other regions in Karnataka every year, driven by poverty and the hope of earning a livelihood. However, instead of opportunities, they encounter exploitation at the hands of middlemen, contractors, and landlords. Many never return home, their names lost in the shadows of unreported deaths, mysterious disappearances, and uninvestigated crimes.
Despite the existence of legal frameworks meant to protect the rights of tribal and migrant workers, the reality on the ground remains bleak. Laws prohibiting bonded labor,
forced migration, and workplace exploitation exist only on paper, while enforcement remains weak or nonexistent. The tribals, often unaware of their rights and lacking access to legal recourse, continue to be treated as expendable labor, subjected to inhumane conditions with little hope of justice.
The Mysterious Death of Skehkaran: A Story of Exploitation and Injustice
Shekharan, a young tribal man from Palakkolly Colony in Pulppally, Wayanad, met a tragic end at Vivekananda Hospital in Saragur, Karnataka. His death was not an isolated incident but another grim chapter in the ongoing exploitation of tribal workers in Kudak. The circumstances surrounding his death raised serious suspicions, pointing to a larger network of forced labor, abuse, and intimidation.
According to Shekharan’s relatives, he had been recruited by an agent known as Santhosh Mash, a middleman notorious for luring tribal youth into harsh and exploitative labor conditions. It was under Santhosh’s coercion that Skekharan was sent to Kudak, where he worked under a contractor. His father, Kayamma, and brother, Babu, had previously been employed in the same region, where they too experienced ill-treatment at the hands of labor agents and landlords. However, unlike his family members, Shekharan remained there alone, cut off from any support system.
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A Disturbing Turn of Events
One day, Babu his brother received a distressing phone call from an unknown person, informing him that Shekharan had been found unconscious with a high fever inside a makeshift shed. Rushing to the location, Babu discovered his brother in a critical state and immediately transported him to the nearest hospital for treatment. Despite their efforts, Shekharan succumbed to his condition within days of being admitted.
The family’s suspicions deepened when they saw Shekharan’s body. His relatives alleged that his body was bleeding and bore two deep wounds on his stomach—injuries that had not been present before he was moved to the hospital’s ICU. Speaking to the media, the family raised serious concerns over the nature of his death, suggesting possible foul play.
Cover-Up and Intimidation
Shockingly, before any postmortem examination could be conducted, Shekharan’s body was cremated under duress. The people involved in recruiting tribal workers to Koorg exerted immense pressure on the family, forcing them to comply. They were threatened and warned against pursuing any legal action or questioning the circumstances of his death. This blatant attempt to erase evidence further fueled suspicions of a cover-up.
Despite the intimidation, human rights activists took up the case and filed a formal complaint with the police, demanding an investigation into Shekharan’s untimely death. His case, like many others, highlighted the vulnerability of Wayanad’s tribal laborers, who were routinely exploited, silenced, and subjected to extreme abuse in the name of employment.
The Suspicious Death of Santhosh: Another Victim of Tribal Exploitation
Santhosh, a young tribal man from Koythupara Colony in Wayanad and the son of Raju, was yet another casualty of the relentless exploitation faced by migrant tribal laborers in Kudak. Like many others before him, he was recruited under dubious circumstances, coerced into migrating for work, and tragically found dead far from home. The circumstances surrounding his death raised serious suspicions, further exposing the deep-seated injustices faced by Wayanad’s tribal workforce.
Santhosh was not alone when he left for Kudak; he traveled alongside four others—Jiju, Manikandan, Thankachan, and Vishnu—who were also recruited for labor. However, when his body was returned to his family, a disturbing sequence of events unfolded. Some individuals exerted pressure on his relatives, insisting that they should not file a police
complaint regarding his death. This raised immediate concerns about the true cause of his demise.
A Web of Suspicion
Adding to the mystery, the four men who accompanied Santhosh to Kudak—Jiju, Manikandan, Thankachan, and Vishnu—did not attend his cremation ceremony. Their unexplained absence deepened the suspicions of Santhosh’s family, leaving them with unanswered questions. Why did those who traveled with him refuse to show up for his final rites? Were they silenced? Did they witness something they were afraid to disclose?
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The reluctance to report the incident to the police, coupled with the pressure exerted on the family, pointed toward a possible cover-up. Santhosh’s case echoed a pattern observed in several other deaths of tribal laborers in Kudak—sudden, unexplained fatalities followed by intimidation and secrecy.
A Pattern of Neglect and Systemic Failure
Santhosh’s death is yet another grim testament to the vulnerability of Wayanad’s tribal youth, who are often lured into bonded labor under false pretenses, only to meet tragic ends in unfamiliar territories. The lack of legal intervention and the failure of authorities to investigate such cases have emboldened labor agents and exploitative landlords, allowing this cycle of abuse to continue unchecked.
Despite existing labor laws and constitutional protections for tribal communities, justice remains out of reach for victims like Santhosh. Without thorough investigations and accountability, countless others will continue to suffer in silence, their deaths reduced to mere statistics.
Santhosh’s story, like those of many others before him, demands justice. It is a call for urgent reforms, stricter enforcement of labor laws, and a commitment to protecting the
lives and dignity of tribal workers. Until these systemic issues are addressed, Wayanad’s tribal communities will remain trapped in a relentless cycle of migration, exploitation, and loss.
The Mysterious Death of Sreedharan: A Case of Neglect and Cover-Up
Sreedharan, a 49-year-old tribal worker from Vellaram Kunnu, Vellamunda, was found dead on February 17 under suspicious circumstances in Kudak, Karnataka. His lifeless body was discovered in a pond, far from his workplace, raising serious concerns about the events leading to his death. Despite the gravity of the situation, his family has yet to receive a copy of the postmortem report, further fueling suspicions of a cover-up.
Upon learning of his death, Sreedharan’s relatives filed a complaint, prompting the local police to initiate an investigation. His brother, along with the authorities, traveled to Kudak to retrieve more details. However, the Gonikappa police claimed that his body had been found in Uthukkerri and attributed his death to excessive alcohol consumption. This explanation was met with skepticism by his grieving family, who questioned the possibility of him wandering so far from his workplace under the influence of alcohol.
Postmortem and a Funeral Without Family
The postmortem examination was conducted at Birunani, with the Birunani police overseeing the inquest. Shockingly, after the autopsy, Sreedharan’s body was cremated at a panchayat cremation yard in Kudak, without the presence of any family members. His relatives were not even given the opportunity to see him one last time—they were only able to identify his body through photographs.
Adding to their anguish, neither the employer nor the recruiting agent informed Sreedharan’s family of his death. The silence from those responsible for his employment deepened suspicions that something was being deliberately concealed. If his death was indeed accidental, why was there an attempt to rush the cremation? Why was his family kept in the dark until they actively sought answers?
A Disturbing Pattern of Tribal Exploitation
Sreedharan’s case is not an isolated incident—it follows a troubling pattern of mysterious deaths among tribal laborers in Kudak. Many of these deaths are dismissed as alcohol-related, with little to no formal investigation. The lack of transparency, delayed postmortem reports, and forced cremations in the absence of relatives all point to possible foul play and systemic neglect.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of Wayanad’s tribal workforce, who migrate for survival but often end up as victims of an exploitative system. Their deaths, frequently overlooked or hastily explained away, demand deeper scrutiny. Until there is accountability and justice, families like Sreedharan’s will continue to suffer in silence, robbed not only of their loved ones but also of the truth surrounding their deaths.
Arun Chomani’s Ordeal: A Harrowing Tale of Bonded Labor and Coercion
Arun Chomani, a resident of Panawalli Kalinthi Colony, Wayanad, became a victim of brutal exploitation when he was recruited to work on a ginger farm in Sreemangala, Kudak. Promised fair wages and decent working conditions, Arun, like many other tribal laborers, soon realized the grim reality—no salary, no food, and a complete lack of basic facilities. Forced to endure extreme hardships, he ultimately fled the worksite with a tribal woman and her child, seeking refuge in Wayanad.
A Desperate Escape and Retaliation
Their escape, however, triggered swift and ruthless retaliation. A group of men from Kudak, likely sent by the employer or labor agents, tracked them down in Wayanad. They attempted to abduct the woman and her child, but while she managed to escape, her child was kidnapped and taken back to Kudak as leverage.
A few days later, the same group returned, this time with more aggressive threats. Using fear and intimidation, they forcefully took the woman back to Kudak against her will. Their audacity and impunity underscored the deep-rooted exploitation and unchecked power of landlords and labor agents over tribal workers.
The Mysterious Disappearance of Arun Chomani
Shortly after these events, Arun himself went missing from Wayanad. His sudden disappearance raised alarm among his family, particularly his sister, Gouri, who feared he had been abducted or coerced back into forced labor. She immediately filed a missing person complaint with the Kerala Police, demanding an investigation into her brother’s whereabouts.
Following the complaint, Kerala Police tracked Arun to the landlord’s house in Kudak. When questioned by authorities, Arun stated that he was there voluntarily. However, his sister and other relatives vehemently disputed this claim, asserting that he was being held under duress and was too afraid to reveal the truth.
A System of Fear, Coercion, and Modern-Day Slavery
Despite Arun’s apparent statement, his sister continued to relentlessly appeal to the authorities, insisting that:
- He was under constant surveillance and threats from the landlord and his agents.
- He was not in a position to speak freely or act on his own will.
- His life was in imminent danger if he remained in Kudak.
The tactics used in Arun’s case—kidnapping, intimidation, forced returns, and psychological coercion—mirror a systematic pattern of bonded labor that persists under the guise of informal labor migration. Tribal workers, once lured with false promises, are trapped in cycles of exploitation, where attempts to escape often result in violent retribution.
The Mysterious Disappearance of Thurumban: A Family’s 14-Year Wait for Answers
Thurumban, a 53-year-old tribal man from Ozhakkodiyil, Mananthavady, left for Kudak in 2008, seeking work and a means to support his family. Like many others from Wayanad’s tribal communities, he was drawn by the promise of employment in the agricultural sector. However, he was never seen or heard from again.
Fourteen years have passed, yet his family continues to wait for his return, clinging to the hope that he may still be alive. With no confirmed reports about his whereabouts, they remain trapped in a cycle of uncertainty and anguish.
A Pattern of Disappearances and Forced Labor
Thurumban’s case is not an isolated incident—it is part of a disturbing trend of tribal laborers vanishing after migrating to Kudak. Many tribal men and women are recruited through intermediaries who promise decent wages and fair working conditions. Once they arrive, however, they are subjected to extreme exploitation, bonded labor, and in many cases, complete disappearance.
Questions raised by the family members remain unanswered:
- What happened to Thurumban after he reached Kudak?
- Was he forced into bonded labor, and if so, under whom?
- Did he attempt to escape, and was he met with violence?
- Why has there been no effort to trace him despite his family’s prolonged distress?
A Family’s Endless Search for Justice
For fourteen long years, Thurumban’s family has waited, hoping for news—good or bad—that would bring them closure. They have approached authorities multiple times, but their pleas have been met with indifference and bureaucratic inaction.
The family believes that his disappearance is linked to the exploitative labor system that continues to trap tribal workers in Kudak. With no official investigation into his case and no records of his whereabouts, they fear that he may have been either a victim of forced labor, human trafficking, or worse—met with a tragic fate that was quietly covered up.
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The Tragic Death of Mani: A Tribal Laborer Burned Alive for Survival
Mani, a young tribal laborer, was recruited to work in a ginger field in Kudak under the promise of fair wages. However, like many others before him, he was denied any payment, left to endure extreme hunger and hardship. Desperate to survive, Mani secretly sold 15 kg of ginger just to afford a meal.
When the landlord learned of this, his reaction was nothing short of barbaric. Enraged by Mani’s act of desperation, he set fire to the laborers’ shed, trapping Mani inside. Unable to escape, Mani was burned alive, killed on the spot. By the time his body was recovered, it was completely charred—reduced to nothing but ashes of a life that once held dreams and dignity.
Justice Denied: A System That Fails the Voiceless
Despite the horrific nature of the crime, no legal action has been taken against the landlord responsible for Mani’s brutal murder. The incident, like countless others, was conveniently buried under a veil of silence and indifference, allowing the perpetrator to walk free without consequences.
The absence of justice for Mani underscores the harsh reality faced by tribal laborers trapped in exploitative conditions. Their lives are seen as expendable, their deaths met with neglect, and their suffering dismissed as an unfortunate but routine aspect of bonded labor.
The Harrowing Ordeal of Appu and Kalyani: Trapped in a Cycle of Exploitation
Appu and Kalyani, two young tribal laborers, were recruited to work in a ginger field with the promise of fair wages and basic living conditions. Initially, the landlord provided them with food, but as time passed, even that meager support was withdrawn. They were denied wages, subjected to physical assault and constant threats, and forced to endure inhumane conditions.
A Desperate Escape and Another Betrayal
Unable to bear the relentless abuse, Appu and Kalyani fled, but with no money for food or travel, they wandered for over ten days, surviving on sheer willpower. Eventually, they were approached by another landlord who offered them work and fair wages, giving them a glimmer of hope. However, their relief was short-lived.
This new employer exploited them even more ruthlessly, forcing them into domestic labor alongside grueling agricultural work, all while withholding their wages. He inflicted physical torture and issued death threats, ensuring they remained trapped under his control.
Legal Action and an Insulting Compensation
Meanwhile, their worried relatives, concerned for their safety, filed a complaint with the authorities. Sensing potential legal trouble, the landlord hurriedly handed them ₹6,000, a mere fraction of the actual wages owed, in an attempt to evade accountability. It was not an act of compensation, but one of desperation—to escape consequences.
Eventually, the police intervened and rescued Appu and Kalyani, but justice remains elusive. The full wages they rightfully earned have yet to be paid, and the perpetrators continue to operate with impunity.
Unveiling the Unheard Tragedy: 122 Tribal Deaths in Kudak Exposed by People’s Tribunal
In 2007-2008, a shocking revelation emerged from Wayanad—122 unexplained deaths of tribal laborers who had migrated to Kudak for work. This grim statistic was uncovered by a fact-finding committee led by tribal leader and activist Ammini Wayanad. The findings pointed to systematic exploitation, bonded labor, and extreme human rights violations that had been largely ignored by the authorities.
People’s Tribunal: A Platform for Justice
To bring these atrocities to light, Neethivedi, a human rights organization, convened a People’s Tribunal in Wayanad. During this tribunal, family members of the deceased, along with human rights activists, testified about the harrowing realities faced by tribal laborers in Kudak. The tribunal documented:
- 122 reported cases of tribal laborers who had either mysteriously died, gone missing, or been murdered in Kudak.
- First-hand accounts from families, detailing how their loved ones left for work and never returned.
- Testimonies of extreme exploitation, where laborers were forced to work under inhumane conditions without wages, food, or medical care.
- Allegations of physical abuse, bonded labor, and employer brutality, where landlords used coercion and violence to keep workers enslaved.
- Suspicious deaths, where victims were either found burned alive, abandoned in forests, or falsely accused of alcohol-related fatalities to cover up foul play.
- Ammini Waynad is the real fighter for justice for trible issues belonging to trible community and went to the houeses of victim for fact finding and support them for justice.
A System That Enables Exploitation
The People’s Tribunal not only exposed the depth of the crisis but also highlighted the complete failure of law enforcement and government agencies to protect tribal workers. The systemic lack of:
- Proper investigation into deaths
- Interstate coordination between Kerala and Karnataka
- Legal action against exploitative landlords and labor contractors
System allowed these tragedies to continue unchecked. The tribunal also revealed that many of these cases had been intentionally silenced, with families either threatened into submission or too powerless to seek justice.
A Call to Action: Justice for the Forgotten
The tribunal’s findings demand immediate legal action to:
1. Reopen investigations into all 122 reported cases of death and disappearance.
2. Hold landlords, labor contractors, and intermediaries accountable for bonded labor and exploitation.
3. Strengthen legal protections for migrant tribal laborers to prevent further exploitation.
4. Establish a dedicated investigative body to track and protect tribal workers migrating for labor.
5. Ensure compensation and justice for the families of the deceased.
The death of innocent tribal workers cannot be ignored. Their suffering stands as a haunting reminder of modern-day slavery, operating under the guise of labor migration. Without intervention, this cycle of exploitation and silent deaths will only continue, claiming more lives in the shadows of Kudak’s fields.
SC/ST Commission’s Intervention in the Disappearance and Exploitation of Tribal Laborers
The alarming reports of missing tribal laborers, unexplained deaths, and extreme exploitation in Kudak led to the intervention of the Kerala SC/ST Commission. In response to widespread concerns raised by human rights activists, tribal leaders, and affected families, the commission initiated an inquiry into the issue.
Commission’s Visit and Field Investigation
As part of its investigation, the SC/ST Commission of Kerala conducted an official sitting in Wayanad, where they heard testimonies from the families of missing tribal laborers, activists, and local community leaders. The sitting aimed to:
- Understand the extent of forced labor and missing cases
- Identify violations of labor rights and human rights abuses
- Investigate the systemic failure in protecting tribal workers
Following the sitting, a delegation led by SC/ST Commission Member Rugmini personally visited the agricultural fields of Kudak, where a significant number of tribal laborers from Wayanad were employed under exploitative conditions. The ground reality they witnessed was horrifying.
Shocking Findings from the Commission’s Inquiry
The commission’s investigation revealed grave human rights violations faced by tribal laborers in Kudak. The key findings included:
- Non-payment of wages: Tribal laborers were made to work under extreme conditions without receiving their rightful earnings. Many were forced to continue working indefinitely under false promises of future payments.
- Inhuman living conditions: There was no proper shelter for the workers. Many lived in makeshift huts or dilapidated sheds, completely exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Lack of access to food and water: Initially, some landlords provided minimal food rations, but after a period, even basic sustenance was denied, leading to extreme hunger and starvation.
- No access to healthcare: Laborers had no medical assistance, even in cases of severe illness or injuries. Many died without treatment, and their deaths were either ignored or falsely attributed to alcoholism or natural causes.
- Physical abuse and coercion: Workers were subjected to verbal abuse, physical assault, and threats of violence. Those who attempted to escape were often hunted down or threatened into silence.
- Bonded labor and trafficking: Many workers were essentially trapped in a cycle of bonded labor, unable to leave due to mounting debts, threats, and social isolation.
Official Report and Recommendations to the Government
Following their investigation, the SC/ST Commission submitted a detailed report to the Government of Kerala, highlighting the severe exploitation and human rights abuses faced by the tribal community. The report included urgent recommendations for:
1. Immediate legal action against landlords and labor contractors engaged in bonded labor and exploitation.
2. Interstate coordination between Kerala and Karnataka to track, rescue, and protect tribal laborers.
3. Ensuring full wage compensation to all affected tribal workers.
4. Providing shelters, healthcare, and food security for migrant laborers to prevent future exploitation.
5. A comprehensive database of migrant tribal workers to monitor their movement and prevent trafficking.
6. Strengthening labor laws and their enforcement to safeguard the rights of tribal communities.
The Need for Justice and Accountability
Despite the commission’s findings and recommendations, justice remains largely elusive. Many cases of missing and deceased laborers remain unresolved, and the perpetrators continue to operate freely. The failure to hold accountable those responsible for the abuse and exploitation of tribal workers raises serious concerns about the systemic neglect and marginalization of tribal communities.
A Call for Immediate Action
The SC/ST Commission’s intervention marked an important step, but more decisive actions are needed to:
- Ensure justice for the victims and their families
- Criminally prosecute those responsible for bonded labor and human rights violations
- Implement strong safeguards to prevent further exploitation of tribal workers
The Kudak labor crisis is not just a labor rights issue—it is a human rights emergency. Without swift and strict measures, the vicious cycle of exploitation, disappearances, and deaths of tribal workers will persist, leaving future generations to suffer the same fate.
The Urgent Call for Justice and Reform
Kolu’s tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for systemic reform. Strengthening legal protections, ensuring strict enforcement, and holding perpetrators accountable are essential steps in addressing this crisis. Additionally, providing sustainable livelihoods, securing land rights, and expanding educational opportunities in Wayanad can help prevent forced migration and the ensuing exploitation of tribal workers.
The silence surrounding such injustices must be broken. The stories of Kolu and countless others demand recognition, justice, and a resolute commitment to ending the cycle of exploitation that has plagued Wayanad’s tribal communities for generations. Only through collective action and unwavering advocacy can these marginalized voices be heard and their suffering ended.
Sreedharan’s story is just one of many, reflecting the harsh reality faced by tribal workers who migrate to Kodagu in search of livelihood. The unchecked power of labor agents, the apathy of authorities, and the absence of legal safeguards place thousands of tribal youth at risk. Urgent intervention is needed to dismantle this exploitative system, ensure accountability, and provide Wayanad’s tribal communities with secure, dignified employment opportunities. Without justice for victims like Sreedharan, the cycle of forced labor, abuse, and silent suffering will persist, claiming more innocent lives while those responsible remain unpunished.
Arun Chomani’s case exposes the glaring failures of law enforcement and labor protection mechanisms. Despite existing laws safeguarding tribal workers and prohibiting bonded labor, these violations persist due to:
- Weak enforcement of labor laws governing interstate migration.
- The complicity or inaction of local authorities, allowing landlords to operate with impunity.
- Lack of institutional support for victims attempting to escape.
Gouri’s relentless pursuit of justice for her brother underscores the need for:
- Immediate intervention and rescue operations for those trapped in forced labor.
- Stronger accountability for landlords and labor agents involved in bonded labor practices.
- Systemic reforms to protect vulnerable tribal workers from modern-day slavery.
Without decisive action, cases like Arun’s will continue to unfold, leaving countless others trapped in cycles of exploitation and fear.
Thurumban’s case highlights the failure of law enforcement and labor rights protections for migrant tribal workers. The lack of coordination between Kerala and Karnataka has allowed many such cases to go uninvestigated. The government and human rights organizations must take immediate steps to:
- Investigate past cases of missing tribal laborers who migrated to Kodagu.
- Strengthen protection mechanisms for vulnerable communities at risk of exploitation.
- Hold labor recruiters, contractors, and employers accountable for coercion and human trafficking.
- Establish a missing persons inquiry commission to track and locate laborers who have vanished under suspicious circumstances.
Without urgent intervention, families like Thurumban’s will continue to suffer in silence, waiting for loved ones who may never return.
Mani’s tragic death underscores the urgent need for stronger legal protections and immediate intervention in cases of forced labor, violence, and human rights violations against tribal workers. Authorities must:
- Conduct a full-scale investigation into Mani’s death and prosecute those responsible.
- Hold landlords and labor recruiters accountable for crimes against migrant tribal workers.
- Implement and enforce stringent labor laws to prevent further exploitation and violence.
- Ensure fair wages and protection for all migrant laborers, particularly those from vulnerable tribal communities.
Without swift and decisive action, Mani’s fate will not be the last. His story must not fade into oblivion—it should serve as a turning point in the fight for justice, dignity, and the protection of tribal laborers from inhumane exploitation.
Babu, a 37-year-old resident of Mundupara Colony in Meppadi, was found dead in Coorg on December 21, 2020. His sister, Radha, was informed of his death by Sajin, a co-worker. Babu had been taken to Coorg by Eldo, a resident of Meenangadi, Wayanad. Friends and relatives retrieved his body from Mysore Medical College. Suspecting foul play, residents of Mundupara Colony filed a complaint at Meppadi police station.
Appu and Kalyani’s harrowing experience epitomizes the systemic exploitation faced by tribal laborers, often treated as disposable rather than as human beings. Their story demands:
- Urgent legal action against perpetrators.
- The rigorous enforcement of labor laws.
- Stringent measures to protect tribal workers from bonded labor and violence.
Without decisive intervention and systemic reform, countless others like Appu and Kalyani will remain ensnared in an unending cycle of modern-day slavery. The time to act is now.
Police Investigation into Missing Tribal Laborers: A Case of Neglect and Inaction
The mysterious disappearances and deaths of tribal laborers from Wayanad who migrated to Kudak for work eventually caught the attention of the law enforcement authorities. In response to mounting public pressure and the intervention of the SC/ST Commission and human rights activists, the then North Zone Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohanachandran, initiated an inquiry into the missing cases of tribal workers. However, despite the initial investigation, no meaningful follow-up or concrete action was taken to address the issue.
The Investigation That Led Nowhere
The inquiry, launched amid growing concerns over bonded labor, human trafficking, and suspicious deaths, aimed to:
1. Trace the missing tribal workers who had left for Kudak and never returned.
2. Investigate the causes of unexplained deaths and cases of workers found under mysterious circumstances.
3. Hold accountable the landlords, labor contractors, and intermediaries involved in exploiting tribal laborers.
Despite these objectives, the investigation lacked the necessary depth, urgency, and commitment to uncover the truth. The families of the victims and human rights groups reported that:
- No systematic documentation or tracking of missing laborers was conducted.
- There was no coordinated effort between Kerala and Karnataka police to retrieve missing individuals or investigate suspicious deaths.
- Testimonies from affected families were largely ignored, leaving their grievances unaddressed
- No arrests or legal actions were taken against the perpetrators—including labor agents and landlords who had been directly accused of abuse and exploitation.
Lack of Follow-up and Government Apathy
Following the initial inquiry, there were no further developments or proactive measures from the police to pursue justice for the missing and deceased tribal laborers. The issue was slowly pushed into bureaucratic silence, leaving affected families desperate for answers and justice.
- Many police reports remained incomplete, with no conclusive findings.
- No compensation or legal relief was provided to the families of those who had died or gone missing.
- Witnesses and victims’ families reported facing threats and intimidation from landlords and intermediaries, yet no protection was offered by law enforcement agencies.
A Pattern of Systemic Neglect
The failure of the police inquiry is not an isolated incident but part of a larger pattern of systemic neglect towards tribal communities. Despite laws protecting tribal rights, the lack of enforcement and political will has allowed exploitation to continue unchecked.
The inaction of law enforcement in the Kudak labor crisis exposes:
1. The deep-rooted discrimination against tribal communities, where their lives and grievances are treated as insignificant.
2. The complicity of authorities in shielding powerful landlords and labor contractors, despite clear evidence of human rights violations.
3. The failure of the justice system to ensure accountability, making tribal workers easy targets for further exploitation.
The Urgent Need for Justice and Reform
The failure of IGP Mohanachandran’s investigation raises serious concerns about the credibility of law enforcement and their commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. To rectify this grave injustice, urgent actions are required:
- A high-level judicial inquiry into all missing and deceased tribal laborers from Wayanad who migrated to Kudak.
- Interstate police coordination between Kerala and Karnataka to track and rescue tribal laborers facing exploitation.
- Immediate legal action against landlords, labor contractors, and intermediaries involved in bonded labor and human trafficking.
- Comprehensive government intervention to provide relief, compensation, and rehabilitation for affected tribal families.
- Strong monitoring mechanisms to prevent further exploitation of tribal laborers migrating for work.
The Coorg labor crisis is a humanitarian disaster that cannot be ignored. Unless justice is served and systemic changes are enforced, the cycle of bonded labor, disappearances, and deaths will continue, perpetuating generations of suffering for tribal communities.
Failure of Special Investigation into Missing Tribal Cases: A Tale of Unfulfilled Promises
In response to the alarming cases of missing and deceased tribal laborers from Wayanad who had migrated to Kudak for work, a special investigation team was formed under the leadership of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Santharam. Unlike previous inquiries that lacked momentum, this team directly gathered evidence from witnesses and actively engaged with affected families in an attempt to uncover the truth behind the disappearances. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Amoose Mamam led the operational aspects of the investigation, specifically focusing on the patterns of exploitation and human trafficking linked to these cases.
Also Read : Ramabai Ambedkar: A Silent Social Reformer
The Investigation That Raised Hopes
The formation of this special task force was seen as a significant step toward justice, as it sought to:
- Record testimonies from victims’ families and witnesses who had first-hand knowledge of the exploitation faced by tribal laborers in Kudak.
- Identify the key individuals and networks involved in the trafficking, abuse, and forced labor of tribals in the agricultural estates.
- Unravel the circumstances surrounding suspicious deaths and disappearances, which had largely remained uninvestigated.
For the first time, many tribal families found the courage to share their experiences with law enforcement, believing that justice might finally be served. The officers leading the investigation seemed determined to address the deep-rooted issue of bonded labor and human rights violations.
A Case That Led to Nowhere
However, despite the serious efforts of IGP Santharam and DySP Amoose Mamam, no decisive action followed the investigation. The findings were neither pursued nor translated into concrete legal steps, leaving the victims and their families in a state of despair.
- No criminal charges were filed against the landlords and middlemen who had been accused of forced labor, unpaid wages, physical abuse, and human trafficking.
- The Kerala government failed to act on the investigative team’s findings, leading to a complete standstill in the legal process.
- There was no rescue or rehabilitation effort initiated to protect other tribals at risk of similar exploitation in Kudak.
Systemic Neglect and Government Inaction
The failure to act upon the findings of the special investigative team highlights the institutional apathy towards tribal issues. Even after gathering direct evidence and testimonies:
- No compensation or legal relief was granted to the families of missing or deceased tribals.
- No policy reforms were introduced to safeguard tribal workers migrating for labor.
- The exploitation of tribal laborers in Kudak continued unchecked, with no fear of legal repercussions for the perpetrators.
Despite the police effort, the lack of political will and bureaucratic inaction meant that the investigation had no real impact. The government’s silence reinforced the perception that tribal lives were disposable, and justice for the marginalized communities remained elusive.
The Urgent Need for Action
The collapse of the special investigation into missing tribal cases demands urgent intervention. Without immediate action, more tribal workers will continue to fall prey to exploitation, disappearances, and mysterious deaths. The following steps must be taken without delay:
1. Revive the investigation under a high-level judicial commission with independent oversight.
2. Prosecute those responsible for trafficking, forced labor, and violence against tribal laborers.
3. Ensure that the Kerala government implements protective measures for tribals migrating for work, including legal safeguards, monitoring, and enforcement of labor rights.
4. Provide financial compensation and rehabilitation to affected families.
5. Establish an interstate coordination system between Kerala and Karnataka to track and protect vulnerable tribal workers.
The special investigation team, despite its efforts, became yet another instance of unfulfilled justice for the tribal community. Until decisive legal and governmental actions are taken, the tragic cycle of exploitation will continue, leaving behind a trail of suffering and unanswered questions.
Legislative Assembly SC/ST Welfare Committee’s Findings and Recommendations on Tribal Exploitation in Wayanad
In 2018, the SC/ST Welfare Committee of the Kerala Legislative Assembly conducted a field visit to the Paniya colonies in Wayanad to assess the socio-economic conditions of the tribal communities. Their investigation revealed severe exploitation of tribal laborers in Kudak, including financial and physical abuse by landlords and middlemen.
One of the most alarming findings was that many tribal workers were not paid in wages but instead given alcohol as compensation, leading to increased addiction among the community. This systematic exploitation deepened their vulnerability, trapping them in a cycle of poverty and substance abuse.
Key Observations by the Committee:
1. Increased Alcoholism Due to Wage Exploitation:
o Employers in Kudak often provided alcohol instead of wages, worsening addiction among tribal workers.
o This tactic ensured continued exploitation and dependence on landlords.
2. Rising School Dropout Rates:
o Educated tribal youth were also being recruited for labor, preventing them from pursuing further studies.
o This trend contributed to the high dropout rate in Model Residential Schools, which were established to uplift tribal education.
3. Unemployment Among Educated Tribals:
o Even those who completed their education struggled to find appropriate employment opportunities.
o The lack of job placements and career prospects discouraged many from continuing education.
4. Absence of Land Ownership and Documentation:
o Most Paniya tribal families did not have legal ownership of land, leaving them landless and vulnerable.
o Existing land occupied by tribals lacked proper documentation, leading to evictions and displacement.
5. Lack of Representation and Continued Oppression:
o The most vulnerable tribal groups had little to no political or administrative representation.
o Agents and landlords continued to dominate and exploit tribal labor, perpetuating their oppression.
Committee’s Recommendations to the Government:
Following their assessment, the Legislative Assembly SC/ST Welfare Committee proposed several critical measures to improve the living conditions of tribals in Wayanad:
1. Financial Support for Housing:
o Instead of the existing fragmented housing assistance, the committee recommended providing full financial support through the ‘Life Mission’ housing scheme.
2. Establishment of Public Cremation Grounds:
o Free and accessible public cremation places should be provided for tribals, addressing issues of dignity and cultural practices.
3. Free Coaching for PSC Examinations:
o Special coaching programs should be introduced for tribal students preparing for Public Service Commission (PSC) exams to enhance employment opportunities.
4. Entrepreneurship Development Initiatives:
o Government-backed entrepreneurship programs should be introduced to promote self-reliance and economic upliftment among tribals.
5. Grant and Documentation for Land Ownership:
o Immediate steps should be taken to grant legal ownership of land to tribals and ensure proper documentation for their existing landholdings.
6. Increased Remuneration for Tribal Promoters:
o Tribal welfare promoters, who act as intermediaries between the government and tribal communities, should receive higher wages for their services.
7. Strict Prohibition of Alcohol as Wage Compensation:
o A legal ban should be enforced to prohibit the practice of providing alcohol instead of wages to tribal laborers.
8. Universal Ration Card Access for Tribals:
o Ensure that every tribal household receives a ration card, allowing access to subsidized food and essential supplies.
9. Enhanced Monitoring of Welfare Schemes:
o Strengthen monitoring mechanisms to track the implementation and effectiveness of welfare programs meant for tribals.
Call for Immediate Government Action:
The committee’s findings highlighted systemic injustices that had kept the Paniya community and other tribal groups trapped in generational poverty and oppression. Their recommendations, if implemented effectively, could transform the lives of Wayanad’s tribal population by ensuring financial stability, educational opportunities, land security, and freedom from exploitative labor conditions.
However, the success of these proposals depends entirely on government commitment, policy execution, and continuous monitoring. Without urgent action, these communities will remain vulnerable to exploitation, displacement, and economic deprivation, continuing the cycle of oppression that has lasted for generations.
Guidelines Issued by the District Collector of Wayanad to Protect Tribal Workers
In response to the ongoing exploitation and human rights violations faced by tribal laborers, the District Collector of Wayanad issued a circular mandating essential guidelines to safeguard their rights and welfare. These guidelines aim to regulate the recruitment process, ensure fair wages, and provide minimum living standards for tribal workers engaged in agricultural labor outside the district, particularly in Kudak.
Guidelines of the Circular
1. Mandatory Work Agreement:
o A formal agreement must be executed between the worker and employer, outlining:
§ Duration of employment
§ Agreed-upon wages
§ Provision of accommodation, food, and other basic necessities
o This ensures transparency and accountability, preventing exploitative and forced labor practices.
2. Registration and Reporting of Recruitment:
o Any recruitment of tribal workers must be reported to one of the following authorities:
§ Community head
§ Tribal extension officer
§ Tribal promoter
§ Local police station
o This provision aims to monitor labor movements and prevent trafficking or illegal forced labor.
3. Secure Housing and Basic Needs:
o Employers are required to provide proper living conditions for the workers, including:
§ Safe and hygienic accommodation
§ Sufficient food and clean drinking water
§ Access to medical care in case of illness or emergencies
4. Enforcement and Monitoring:
o Local authorities and law enforcement agencies are tasked with ensuring compliance with these guidelines.
o Any violation by employers or agents will be subject to legal action, including penalties for non-compliance.
Significance of the Circular
The issuance of these guidelines represents an official acknowledgment of the exploitative conditions faced by tribal laborers and a step toward their protection. By mandating transparency in recruitment, securing workers’ basic rights, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms, this initiative aims to reduce bonded labor, human trafficking, and abuse in external workplaces like Kudak.
However, effective enforcement and community awareness are crucial to ensure these regulations do not remain just on paper but are implemented in practice, bringing real change to the lives of Wayanad’s tribal population. .
Legal Negligence and the Plight of Tribal Laborers at the Kerala-Karnataka Border
Despite the existence of numerous legal protections, there is a glaring absence of specific laws to effectively prevent crimes against tribal workers in the context of labor migration to Kudak. The failure of the state machinery in both Kerala and Karnataka has led to the continued exploitation, abuse, and neglect of the fundamental rights of the tribal population.
Systemic Exploitation and Legal Oversight
The tribal workers mentioned in this account have been subjected to modern-day slavery, facing financial and physical exploitation at the hands of:
- Agents and middlemen who traffic them under false promises,
- Contractors and landlords who deny fair wages, proper shelter, and basic human needs,
- Government authorities who turn a blind eye to their suffering, disappearances, and deaths.
Despite the existence of constitutional safeguards, the Indian Penal Code (BNS), and various special laws, the tribal workforce continues to be ignored by the judicial and administrative systems of both states.
Failure of the State and Denial of Rights
The Constitution of India guarantees fundamental rights to every citizen, including tribal communities, under provisions such as:
- Article 46: Protection and promotion of the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Tribes.
- Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989: A law designed to prevent violence and discrimination against SC/ST communities.
- Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976: Declares bonded labor illegal and provides for rehabilitation of those affected.
However, in reality, these laws remain largely ineffective, as tribal laborers continue to live in conditions of forced servitude, denied their rights and dignity.
The Unavoidable Cycle of Exploitation
For many tribals, migration to Kudak is not a choice but a compulsion. The lack of employment opportunities, land ownership, and access to education forces them into a vicious cycle of exploitation. Once trapped in debt bondage and harsh working conditions, they lose all agency over their lives, making escape nearly impossible.
Call for Immediate Action
Both the State of Kerala and the State of Karnataka have a constitutional obligation to:
- Strictly enforce existing legal provisions to protect tribal workers,
- Investigate and prosecute agents, contractors, and landlords responsible for exploitation,
- Ensure safe and fair working conditions for migrant tribal laborers,
- Provide alternative livelihood opportunities to eliminate forced migration,
- Recognize and uphold the dignity and rights of the tribal communities.
Without immediate intervention, the cycle of abuse will continue, leaving countless tribal families trapped in a life of suffering, oppression, and systemic neglect.
Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979: A Legal Framework for Safeguarding Labor Rights
The Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979 is a crucial piece of legislation designed to protect migrant workers’ rights and regulate their working conditions. This Act mandates specific obligations for contractors, principal employers, and government authorities to ensure fair wages, safety, and welfare of inter-state laborers.
Legal Provisions of the Act to protect migrant workers
1. Duties of Contractors (Section 12, Chapter IV)
Contractors employing inter-state migrant workers are required to:
- Issue a passbook containing the worker’s photograph, details in Hindi, English, and the local language, employment duration, proposed wage rates, and mode of payment.
- Specify the displacement allowance payable to the worker.
- Ensure return fare upon the completion of the employment period.
- Maintain an updated passbook throughout the employment period.
2. Wage and Service Conditions (Section 13)
- This section ensures fair wages, holiday entitlements, regulated working hours, and other employment conditions similar to local workers.
- It prohibits discrimination in wage payment between inter-state and local workers.
3. Displacement and Journey Allowance (Sections 14 & 15)
- Section 14 mandates the payment of displacement allowance to compensate workers for the hardship of migration.
- Section 15 requires the contractor to cover travel expenses for workers to and from their native place.
4. Additional Facilities and Contractor’s Responsibilities (Sections 16 & 17)
- Section 16 obligates contractors to provide essential facilities, including housing, healthcare, sanitation, and safe drinking water.
- Section 17 makes the contractor directly responsible for timely payment of wages.
Monitoring and Enforcement Mechanisms
5. Inspection and Maintenance of Records (Sections 20 & 23, Chapter VI)
- Section 20 mandates the appointment of inspectors to ensure compliance with the Act.
- Section 23 requires contractors and employers to maintain a register of inter-state migrant workers employed, with full records of employment terms, wages, and service conditions.
6. Government Oversight and Rule-Making Powers (Sections 33 & 35)
- Section 33 empowers the Central and State Governments to issue directives for implementing the Act effectively.
- Section 35 authorizes the appropriate government to formulate rules ensuring the protection of migrant workers’ rights.
Legal Negligence and Non-Enforcement of the Act
Despite these clear legal provisions, the failure to enforce the Act has resulted in widespread exploitation of tribal migrant workers, particularly in Kudak and other regions along the Kerala-Karnataka border.
- Contractors fail to issue passbooks, depriving workers of documented employment terms.
- Wages remain unpaid or arbitrarily deducted, violating the law’s provisions.
- No proper housing, medical care, or transportation facilities are provided, pushing workers into inhumane conditions.
- Authorities do not conduct proper inspections, leaving workers vulnerable to abuse, forced labor, and bonded slavery.
Urgent Call for Government Action
Both Kerala and Karnataka governments must immediately implement the provisions of the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979, by:
1. Strictly regulating recruitment agencies to prevent trafficking and forced labor.
2. Ensuring proper wage payment and living conditions for migrant workers.
3. Conducting periodic inspections and prosecuting violating contractors and employers.
4. Providing legal assistance to tribal workers to claim their wages and report exploitation.
5. Creating awareness programs so that migrant laborers know their rights under the law.
Without active enforcement, the tribal workforce will continue to suffer under oppressive conditions, despite the existence of legal safeguards. It is the duty of both state and central governments to uphold justice, dignity, and human rights for every worker, particularly the most vulnerable tribal communities..
Conclusion: Systemic Violations and the Urgent Need for Legal Intervention
The exploitation of tribal migrant laborers in Kudak and similar regions is not just an isolated issue—it represents a deliberate and systemic violation of fundamental human rights and legal protections. Despite the existence of constitutional safeguards, labor laws, and human rights frameworks, landlords and labor agents continue to flagrantly disregard legal mandates, imposing their own unregulated and oppressive systems that mirror modern-day slavery.
The failure of legal agencies to supervise, enforce, and uphold the law has emboldened perpetrators, escalating crimes against tribal workers, including forced labor, wage denial, physical abuse, and even deaths under suspicious circumstances. The lack of accountability within law enforcement and labor regulatory bodies has allowed these injustices to persist unchecked, stripping tribal communities of their right to life, dignity, and fair labor conditions.
This gross dereliction of duty by both state authorities and enforcement agencies has not only perpetuated systemic exploitation but has also led to the tragic loss of countless tribal lives—lives that could have been protected through the proper implementation of existing laws such as the Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979, the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, and various constitutional provisions guaranteeing equal rights.
Given the escalating crisis and the continuous neglect of justice, tribal activists strongly advocate for the introduction of special legislation aimed explicitly at protecting the rights and lives of tribal laborers. Such a law should:
- Guarantee strict monitoring of tribal worker recruitment and employment.
- Mandate severe penalties for employers and agents engaging in exploitation.
- Ensure immediate legal recourse for tribal workers facing abuse.
- Provide state-led financial and legal assistance for affected families.
- Establish an independent tribunal to investigate tribal labor rights violations and ensure swift action against perpetrators.
This issue is being brought to public attention and legal scrutiny with an urgent call for action. The continued silence and inaction of authorities will only embolden exploitation, human trafficking, and labor abuse, perpetuating a cycle of oppression that robs tribal youth of their future. It is the moral and legal obligation of the State and the Judiciary to act decisively, ensuring that justice is served and that the constitutional rights of tribal workers are not just theoretical guarantees, but enforced realities.
(Bindu Ammini, Advocate, Writer and Dalit Activist)
*दलित टाइम्स उन करोड़ो लोगो की आवाज़ है जिन्हें हाशिए पर रखा गया है। *
महिला, दलित और आदिवासियों के मुद्दों पर केंद्रित पत्रकारिता करने और मुख्यधारा की मीडिया में इनका प्रतिनिधित्व करने के लिए हमें आर्थिक सहयोग करें।
