Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB/SP)

Udupi, Oct 25: Convener of the district unit of Karnataka Tribal Community Union (KTCU), Susheela K Nada, addressing a press conference at Press Club here on Saturday October 23, said, “Members of Koraga community federation and tribal communities will be organizing indefinite protest in the form of dharna in front of the office of the deputy commissioner at Manipal from October 26”.

She said that the protest is aimed against diversion of grant meant for tribals in the health department for other purposes.

"Out of the funds earmarked for health scheme for tribals, vehicles were bought for three primary health centres. As the government failed to reimburse cost of treatment of Koragas, several private hospitals are now refusing to treat them under the scheme," she explained.

Susheela further said, “Misuse of funds meant for health of Koragas was violation in the eyes of law. The petitions sent to the district deputy commissioner and district in-charge minister have evoked no response. Therefore, indefinite protest by way of dharna will be undertaken from October 26 onwards, and hunger strike will begin from November 1 if the issue is not settled”.

She demanded for getting back funds used for buying vehicles for primary health centres, and deposited the same in the health account of ITDP department. She also urged to take legal action against erring officials. She demanded transfer of guilty officials and to continue meeting all the medical bills of Koraga community for treatment in private hospitals.

She also demanded for earmarking of two crore rupees for this purpose. She sought smart cards to all the members, appointment of Koraga women as health activists, and to provide proper training to them.

Shashikala, president of Udupi district committee, Koraga development community Okkoota, was present.