Arippa's struggle for land justice

In 2023, I documented the challenges faced by residents of Arippa, a forested area in Kerala's Kollam district. Living under makeshift roofs of blue tarpaulin, approximately 550 families endured a lack of basic amenities like water, electricity, and healthcare for over a decade.

Despite Kerala's lauded land reform laws, marginalized groups such as Adivasis, Dalits, and religious minorities continued to grapple for land rights. The ongoing Arippa Land Struggle aimed to reclaim surplus land for redistribution to the landless.

"We demand farmland; we will not tolerate modern colonization," asserted Ramesh, secretary of the Adivasi Dalit Munnetta Samithi (ADMS). Residents expressed frustration over government offers of small plots and housing, emphasizing the significance of land ownership for food security and social justice.

Healthcare emerged as a pressing concern, with residents unable to afford essential medicines. Sulekha Beevi, a long-time protestor, lamented, "I pay for medicines I can't afford...these expenses are out of my pocket."

Economic opportunities were scarce, with residents resorting to collecting palm leaves for a meager income. Despite promises from political leaders like Minister K Raju, residents remained skeptical of government assistance.

"Government agreed to give them what they need; the protesters didn't agree," stated K Raju, while Cheriyan Philip remarked, "I do not remember much of the issue; it was a long time ago."

Amidst these challenges, the residents of Arippa exhibited resilience, advocating for their rights and dignity. The protest site, Arippa Samarabhoomi, became a symbol of resistance, with residents staging various forms of protests and demonstrations.

In the face of adversity, the residents of Arippa continued their fight for justice and recognition from the local administration and Kerala government. It's truly disheartening to witness their enduring struggle for basic rights and dignity.

Read more here :  Arippa land struggle report