The Kodava Bhasika Association (Kodava Speaking Community Association) has warned that it will be compelled to launch an intensified struggle if the continued neglect of the Kodava-speaking community by the Government and elected representatives persists.
Addressing the Association’s Annual General Meeting for 2025-26, held at the Murnadu Kodava Samaj auditorium, Association President Dr. Mechira Subhash Nanaiah expressed disappointment over what he described as years of indifference towards the Kodava-speaking community, which forms the foundation of Kodava language, culture and traditions.
He stated that the administration has failed to provide even basic facilities to the indigenous and socially backward community. He further remarked that it was unfortunate that the community was being remembered only as a vote bank during elections.
Dr. Nanaiah said that securing a permanent site for the Association remains one of the community’s foremost demands. Although the Government and the district administration had identified suitable land, its allotment has still not been approved, he said, expressing regret over the continued delay. Community leaders Koleyanda Dr. Mohan Appaji, Ambadira Kariappa, Kudiyara Muthappa, Vasudev, Prabhukumar, Bidappa and others addressed the gathering and assured their full cooperation in securing permanent land for the Association.
The speakers further stated that if any issue affecting the dignity or self-respect of the Kodava-speaking community arises, the Association must lead the movement to safeguard the community’s interests. The meeting unanimously resolved that all members should set aside personal differences and unite in taking the struggle to the streets whenever necessary.
Apart from intensifying the agitation for the permanent land issue, the General Meeting also resolved to boycott the forthcoming Gram Panchayat elections after reviewing the prevailing circumstances and future course of action.
Based on the unanimous opinion of the members, it was also resolved that the present Executive Committee of the Association should continue in office for another five years. Members emphasised the need for the community to remain united and avoid any internal divisions.
The Association paid tribute to the late D. Dalu Utthaya of the Panika community, who became a source of inspiration through his organ donation. In recognition of his selfless sacrifice, his wife, Rajeshwari (Raji), was honoured with a memento.
Honorary Secretary Kudanda Saba Subramani welcomed the gathering and presented the comprehensive annual report and audited accounts of the previous year’s General Meeting. The gathering also observed condolences in memory of deceased members of the Association.
Director Koleyanda Girish presented the report of the Board of Directors for the year 2025-26, while Treasurer Padinhiranda Prabhu Kumar presented the financial report. The invocation was offered by Appachanda Trisha.
The meeting also recorded its appreciation to all those who contributed to the successful organisation of the first-ever Kodava Speaking Community Sports Meet.
Vice-President Nereyandama Ada Umaprabhu, Ponnira Gagan, Kudira Bopaiah, Secretary Dinesh Kariappa, Balekuttanda Udaya Madappa, Directors Pottanda Ganesh, Vedapanda Kiran, Patanda Santhosh, Beekachanda Belliappa, Mewatira Muttanna, Kapala Milan, Torera Kashi Kariappa, Ponnajjirappa Tanjan, Kaniyara Prakash, Chokira Babi Bheemaiah, Medara Chandra, Marangi Manu, Jokira Jeevan, Igguda Ganapati and Palas Pale Devaiah, along with members of the Association, were present.
