NHRC Takes Suo Motu Cognizance of Rising Suicides Among Tribals in Thiruvananthapuram, 23 Deaths In 2024
(Judicial Quest News Network)
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report highlighting a concerning rise in suicides among tribal communities residing on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. According to the report, approximately 23 suicides have been recorded in 2024 alone. Rough estimates suggest that between 2011 and 2022, around 138 suicide cases occurred, primarily in the Peringammala Panchayat area. After a period of relative calm over the past two years, this disturbing trend has resurfaced, once again affecting the tribal settlements in the district.
The Commission has noted that if the media report is accurate, it points to a grave concern regarding the right to life, as well as the social, economic, and cultural rights of Scheduled Tribe communities in the region. The suicides of young people from this vulnerable group underscore a significant human rights violation that demands urgent intervention from government authorities. The State, as part of its duty to protect all citizens, must take immediate action to safeguard the well-being and security of those under its jurisdiction.
In response, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, Kerala, requesting a detailed report on the matter. The report should include information on the status of FIRs filed in connection with the incidents, as well as updates on the arrest of those responsible. Additionally, the Commission seeks to know if any compensation has been provided to the next of kin of the deceased. The state government is also expected to outline the measures taken or proposed to prevent such incidents in the future. A response from the authorities is anticipated within two weeks.
A media report published on December 25, 2024, indicates that most of those who took their lives were in the 20-30 age group. The report highlights several cases of suicides, with families and tribal activists citing intense stress from challenging social conditions. They attribute the suicides to a combination of factors, including pressure and harassment related to marriages and relationships outside the community, as well as the growing influence of alcohol and sex rackets.
