Tribal communities residing within the Vattavada grama panchayat in Idukki have reversed their earlier decision to boycott the upcoming local body elections. This development follows a September gathering of tribal heads, known as an Ooru Kootam, from settlements including Swamiyaralakudy and Koodallarkudy, which had initially called for a boycott of both local body and Assembly elections.
The original boycott was initiated to press for the construction of a road connecting five specific settlements—Swamiyaralakudy, Koodallarkudy, Mele Valsappettykudy, Vayaltharakudy, and Parasukkadavukudy—from Vattavada to Kanthallur. Concerns regarding inadequate amenities in reservation wards were also cited. A tribal panchayat member noted that political parties subsequently engaged with the communities regarding their stance.
While the communities will now participate in and contest the local body elections, they have indicated that their involvement in the Assembly elections remains conditional. They have stated that a boycott will proceed if the demanded road infrastructure improvements are not implemented, and any elected panchayat members would resign under such circumstances. A precedent for community action exists, as a 1984 boycott of Lok Sabha elections in Vattavada reportedly led to the provision of basic amenities, including roads and schools.
Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/tribespeople-in-vattavada-panchayat-withdraw-their-poll-boycott/article70290591.ece