A new dawn for Olakara: historic land distribution ends decades of struggle

After decades of struggle, Olakara residents finally granted land rights, ending displacement and adversity in historic ceremony.

After decades of struggle and hardship, the people of Olakara can cultivate in their own land. On Saturday, 44 families from the Malayan tribe were granted 1.5 acres each under the Forest Rights Act, a landmark decision that ended over 70 years of displacement and adversity.

Despite pouring rain, hail, and gusty wind, the mood at the ceremony was nothing short of celebratory. Even nature seemed to share in the joy, with the wind lending a cool, soothing atmosphere to the proceedings.

The Olakara struggle dates back to the 1950s, when the construction of the Peechi dam displaced the Malayan tribe from their forest home and relocated them to Tamaravellachal, Maniyankinar, and Olakara. While the displaced communities in the other areas were granted land, the people of Olakara were left behind, living in precarious conditions.

Over the years, they faced constant threats from wild animals, including elephants, leopards, and wild boars. “We survived on petty works, and, lately, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. If we plant crops on the forest land near our huts, the Forest department will destroy it. We’ve lived here under the constant threat of elephants,” said 74-year-old Velayudhan, who was born at Olakara.

For 90-year-old Ronica, who came to Olakara as a teenager, the gift of 1.5 acres of land still feels surreal. “It is hard to believe that we now have land to call our own,” she said, overcome with emotion.

Madhavi Kuttappan, tribal chieftain (Oorumuppathy) was in tears, while thanking the authorities.

Revenue Minister K. Rajan, a tireless advocate of their cause, expressed pride in this achievement. “This is not a charity; it is their right. As someone who has been part of Olakara’s struggle for many years, this is one of my greatest accomplishments as an elected representative,” he said.