UDUPI, India – Members of the Shillekyata community in Kundapur faced a vicious attack by armed assailants, resulting in injuries and chaos on a recent Thursday. The nomadic community, living near the Gulwadi River, were subjected to violence while at their huts, with women and children being particularly targeted.
Reports indicate that prior to the attack, local goons had threatened the Shillekyata community while they were fishing in the river, issuing life threats and banning them from the water. Despite reporting the threats to authorities, no significant action was taken, leading to the brutal assault on the community members on the fateful day.
The attackers, armed with deadly weapons, barged into the huts, physically assaulting women, children, and the elderly. The victims were left with severe injuries, with women being subjected to particularly brutal treatment, including assault, theft, and casteist abuse. Additionally, the assailants threatened them with death if they did not vacate the area, showing a blatant disregard for their safety and well-being.
Following the heinous attack, the Udupi District Committee of the Coastal Occupational Nomadic Shillekyata Rights has demanded swift action from the police department against the perpetrators. The lack of response from local authorities in the past has emboldened the attackers and left the community vulnerable to further violence.
Leaders within the community, including Santosh Bajal and Kaviraj Kanchan, have emphasized the urgent need for protection for the Shillekyata families and have warned of a potential protest if adequate measures are not taken. Santosh Bajal, in communication with the district superintendent of police, received assurances of protection and strict action against those responsible for the attack.
Authorities have filed a case against several individuals in the Kundapur rural police station under various sections of the Indian Penal Code. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities in the region.