The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed grave concern over the increasing number of suicides among tribal communities residing on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram district in Kerala. Reports indicate that 23 suicides have occurred in 2024 alone, with an estimated 138 cases recorded between 2011 and 2022, predominantly in the Peringammala Panchayat. After a brief lull, this distressing trend has re-emerged, signaling a severe social crisis.
The NHRC has observed that if the media reports are accurate, these incidents highlight a critical violation of the right to life and the social, economic, and cultural rights of Scheduled Tribes in the region. The Commission emphasized that suicides, particularly among vulnerable young individuals aged 20-30, point to systemic issues requiring urgent intervention. It stressed that the state has a constitutional duty to safeguard the safety and well-being of its citizens, especially marginalized communities.
Notices Issued to State Authorities
In response, the NHRC has issued notices to Kerala’s Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, seeking a comprehensive report within two weeks. The report must detail:
- The status of FIRs filed in connection with these suicides.
- The actions taken against perpetrators, if any.
- Compensation provided to the families of the deceased.
- Preventive measures implemented or proposed to avert such incidents in the future.
Root Causes of the Crisis
Media reports, dated 25th December 2024, reveal that significant social and psychological pressures are driving these suicides. Contributing factors include:
- Harassment and ostracization due to inter-community marriages and relationships.
- Exploitation linked to increasing liquor and sex rackets targeting tribal communities.
- Chronic stress from extreme social and economic hardships.
Families and tribal activists have highlighted these issues as key stressors impacting the mental health and stability of the community.
Call for Immediate Action
The NHRC’s intervention underscores the need for immediate action by the state government to address the underlying causes of this crisis. Ensuring the social, economic, and psychological well-being of the tribal population is imperative to prevent further loss of life. The Commission has urged the Kerala government to propose concrete steps to address this alarming trend and safeguard the human rights of its tribal communities.
The NHRC will closely monitor the situation and evaluate the state’s response to ensure accountability and effective solutions.