Karnataka: Codavas demand statehood

Bangalore, Oct 29: The Codava National Council (CNC) has warned that it would launch a 'satyagraha' on November One-the 'Karnataka Rajyotsava Day', in New Delhi demanding a separate home land for Codavas on the lines of Darjeeling Ghoorkha Land to preserve a multi-cultural fabric of the state.

CNC President N U Nachappa Codava told the media here that the separate homeland or state within a state was to ensure Constitutional protection to Codava race, physical protection and financial security for all round development of Codava ethnic minority of about two lakh population concentrated in the district of Kodagu in southern Karnataka.

He said CNC will continue to observe the Karnataka Rajyotsava Day as Black Day till their socio-cultural demands are met.

''We want protection to our lands from land mafias, who grab them at attractive prices only to displace the ethnic minority members,'' he said, adding, only Codava Autonomous Region (CAR) would help them to preserve and protect their 45 ancient Codava Naads along with their unique traditions and culture.

The community seeks protection to their land and customary personal laws as in the case of Nagas and Mizos under Article 371 of Constitution, he said.

He also demanded tribal status for his community and extension of Reservation facilities in the field of education, jobs and finance on the lines of other tribals.

Mr Nachappa said about 60 people will take part in the 'satyagraha' to be held at Jantar Mantar and would also submit a memorandum to the President, the Prime Minister and the Home Minister demanding seperate Codava Land.

UNI