Government steps in to address hardships at Vettilakkolli tribal hamlet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister for Scheduled Tribes O R Kelu has said that the problems faced by members of the Kattunayakan and Muthuvan tribal communities at the Vettilakkolli tribal hamlet in Nilambur will be addressed. The minister's intervention comes after a report published by Kerala Kaumudi highlighted the hunger and hardships faced by the communities. He said Scheduled Tribe department officials will be sent to the area soon to directly address the situation and submit a report.

Issues related to nutrition and food security will be resolved on an urgent basis, the minister said. The Kerala Kaumudi report had focused on the life of a tribal youth, Sundaran (30), from Vettilakkolli. Sundaran, who suffered a spinal injury after a fall, will be given the necessary assistance, the minister assured.

At present, each family is provided with 30 kilograms of rice every month, along with a nutrition kit once every four months. The minister said officials will check whether these supplies are being distributed properly. Free treatment will be ensured for all those with health issues, and any shortage of food grains will also be addressed.

Businessman extends help to Sundaran’s family
Meanwhile, a well-known businessman from Parassala, A. Paulraj, owner of Paulraj and Sons, has announced financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for Sundaran, who is currently undergoing treatment for his spinal injury. Paulraj said he came to know about the hardships faced by the tribal family through the Kerala Kaumudi report.

As Sundaran does not have a bank account, the decision has been taken to hand over the amount directly to him. The company’s PRO, Sindhu Kumar, said arrangements are being made to reach Nilambur at the earliest and provide financial assistance to Sundaran’s family.