The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has raised concerns over the alarming rise in suicides among Adivasi communities in Kerala’s Peringammala Panchayat, Thiruvananthapuram district. Taking suo motu cognizance of media reports, the Commission has issued notices to the Chief Secretary and Director General of Police (DGP), urging a detailed explanation within two weeks regarding the disturbing trend. The reports indicate that 23 suicides have been recorded in the region in 2024 alone, signaling a dire human rights issue impacting Scheduled Tribes.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, the NHRC stated that the reported increase reflects a critical threat to the right to life and socio-economic stability of the tribal population. Between 2011 and 2022, nearly 138 suicides were reported in the same area, but a brief period of calm was observed over the last two years. The recent resurgence of suicides has once again brought the vulnerability of the tribal settlements into focus. The Commission emphasized that suicides among young individuals from marginalized communities constitute a severe human rights violation requiring immediate intervention.

The NHRC has demanded that the Kerala government outline steps already taken or proposed to curb such incidents in the future. Stressing the state’s responsibility, the Commission noted that the authorities are obligated to safeguard the safety and well-being of every citizen, particularly those belonging to vulnerable sections of society. The government’s response will be crucial in addressing the issue and ensuring the implementation of protective measures to prevent further loss of life.