Over the past several years, I have written repeatedly about the challenges facing Kodagu, from environmental degradation to the gradual erosion of our distinct Kodava culture. But today, I write with an even heavier heart. Reports suggest that there are now more than 12,000 illegal migrants in Kodagu, many believed to be from Bangladesh, who have entered under the guise of “construction workers”. It is both astonishing and deeply troubling that such a large number of individuals could quietly take root in a sensitive and strategically important district like Kodagu with so little scrutiny. Who verifies their identities? Who ensures they are here legally? Most importantly, who will take responsibility if their unchecked presence leads to security, social, or communal problems in the future?
Kodagu is not just any district. It is a border district, strategically significant, environmentally fragile, and culturally unique. With a relatively small population and limited resources, even a minor demographic shift could permanently alter its social fabric. It is not paranoia to ask: Are we prepared to face the consequences of unregulated migration? While local youth struggle to find employment, contractors appear to prefer cheap migrant labor, often without asking many questions. Authorities, meanwhile, seem either unaware of the scale of the issue or unwilling to act decisively.
Why have strict verification procedures not been enforced?
Why are contractors and employers not held accountable?
Why is there no system to track how many of these migrants remain here long after their supposed work is done?
Let us be clear: this is not about demonizing poor workers who come seeking a livelihood. But there is a critical difference between a documented, regulated migrant worker – whose presence is lawful and accounted for, and thousands of people whose identities, histories, and intentions remain a complete mystery. Across India, there are districts that once turned a blind eye to such unchecked influx and now regret it bitterly. Kodagu cannot afford to make the same mistake.
We must insist on:
- Thorough police verification and documentation of all migrant workers.
- Strict penalties for contractors and employers who hire illegal migrants.
- Regular drives to identify and deport those who are here unlawfully.
Above all, citizens must remain vigilant and demand accountability from the authorities. If we fail to act today, we may one day watch helplessly as Kodagu’s delicate demographic and cultural balance is irreversibly altered.
Let us not wake up only when it is too late. If we do not draw the line today, tomorrow we risk becoming strangers in our own land. Kodagu’s future is in our hands – we must not surrender to apathy. Kodagu deserves better.
– Kodandera Mamatha Subbaiah
