The Plight of the Gottikoya: Struggling for Recognition and Support

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes is urging the Union Home Ministry and various states to address the challenges faced by the displaced Gottikoya tribals from Chhattisgarh. These communities, forced to relocate due to Maoist violence, struggle with exclusion from social security benefits in their new settlements.

The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes has called on the Union Home Ministry and the states of Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha to provide detailed reports on the conditions of the displaced Gottikoya tribals. Originally from Chhattisgarh, these tribals were forced to move due to Maoist violence and now find themselves deprived of social security benefits in their new homes.

The Commission has scheduled a meeting on December 9, requesting the presence of the Home Ministry's secretary and the chief secretaries of the concerned states. The aim is to discuss the pressing issue and recommend expedient policy decisions to support the tribals.

Reports indicate that the Telangana government reclaimed land from these internally displaced persons in 75 settlements, threatening their livelihoods. Allegations also suggest the demolition of tribal homes by forest officials. However, Telangana's district magistrate refuted these claims, labeling the Gottikoyas as encroachers. The commission continues its push for a comprehensive understanding and solution for the community's plight.

(With inputs from agencies.)