Key Facts
Members of the Kota tribal community in Udhagamandalam have submitted a counter-petition to the District Collector, asserting that they will not allow non-tribal residents to board buses from their village, Kokkal. This follows a petition from residents of neighboring villages demanding bus services to their areas.
Details of the Dispute
On Monday, residents of Kannerimukku, Thubagandi, Selakkal, Sholur Estate, and Kallundi alleged that the Kota residents of Kokkal were preventing them from boarding buses at the village. The Kota tribe reportedly told them that the bus starting from Kokkal is only for their use. In response, the non-tribal villagers requested a separate bus service to Kannerimukku.
On Tuesday, the Kota tribe staged a protest at the District Collectorate, demanding that non-tribals not be allowed to enter their village, citing concerns over preserving their culture and traditions. They insisted that arrangements be made for non-tribals to board buses from a different stop.
Impact and Response
The Udhagamandalam tahsildar intervened and held discussions with the protesters. He informed that talks would be held with the Regional Transport Office to resolve the issue. To avoid potential law-and-order problems, villagers suggested that the Transport Corporation operate separate government buses for Kokkal and Kannerimukku areas.
This is the second such incident in recent years where local communities have objected to others using bus services from their village.
What Readers Should Know
- The dispute highlights tensions between tribal and non-tribal communities over access to public transport.
- The Kota tribe is a Scheduled Tribe in Tamil Nadu, with distinct cultural practices.
- The district administration is working towards a solution that respects tribal sentiments while ensuring mobility for all residents.
FAQ
Why did the Kota tribe protest?
The Kota tribe protested to prevent non-tribals from boarding buses from their village Kokkal, citing concerns over their culture and traditions.
What was the counter-petition about?
The counter-petition stated that the Kota tribe will not allow outsiders to board buses from their village and demanded separate bus services for non-tribal villages.
What is the current status of the dispute?
The district administration, through the tahsildar, has intervened and is holding discussions with the Regional Transport Office to find a solution, possibly operating separate buses for the two areas.
Source: www.thehindu.com