Codava Satyagraha: A call for geo-political autonomy and representation

In a memorandum submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu District, the CNC emphasized the inherent right of the Codavas

Madikeri: The Codava National Council (CNC) on Friday 9 February has called for the promulgation of a Presidential Ordinance to initiate a Constitutional mechanism under Article 32, seeking Geo-Political Autonomy and representation for Codavas in the New Parliament. In a memorandum submitted to the Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu District, the CNC emphasized the inherent right of the Codavas, a microscopic community of around 80,000 individuals living in Codavaland, to self-rule, Geo-Political Autonomy, and representation.

The Codavas, a minuscule group with only 842 clans, are striving for constitutional recognition similar to entities like Darjeeling Gorkhaland and Ladakh & Leh Buddhist Autonomous Councils. The CNC asserts that Codavas' right to self-determination ensures the protection of their age-old customary practices, hereditary lands, language, and cultural heritage.

The memorandum specifically calls for the creation of exclusive Intangible Codava Parliamentary and Assembly Constituencies within the New Parliament on the lines of the "Sangha" Virtual constituency for the Buddhist monastic community in Sikkim. The CNC urges the enactment of special laws recognizing Codava aspirations, considering that the delimitation exercise is frozen until 2026.

Historically, Codavas were an independent community, with Coorg (Codava territory) existing as a separate Nation State until 1790. After subsequent periods of colonization and linguistic state reorganization in 1956, Codavas saw a decline in their political representation and privileges.

The Codava National Council, led by Supremo Sri N U Nachappa Codava, emphasizes the unique contribution of Codavas to the nation, especially in military service, and their adherence to family planning policies. The CNC contends that this sacrifice should not result in a reduction of political representation based on population.

The memorandum highlights the need for Codavaland Geo-Political Autonomy, under Article 244 R/w 6th Schedule of the Constitution, and the carving out of special Intangible- Virtual Constituencies, similar to the "Sangha" Constituency in Sikkim, under Article 371 (F).

The Codava Satyagraha, led by the CNC, saw widespread participation, with members expressing solidarity in the name of Guru-Karona, Sun-Moon, Constitution, Mother Nature, Mountain Goddess, Mother Soil, and Divine Spring Cauvery. The Satyagraha concluded with the singing of the National Anthem, Jana-Gana-Mana.

The CNC's plea is now before the highest offices of the land, seeking not only justice for the Codava community but also a reaffirmation of India's commitment to its diverse and pluralistic ethos.

Disclaimer:  This article provides a brief summary of the Codava National Council's perspectives during their Satyagraha. The views expressed are solely those of the CNC and its leadership. Readers are advised to independently verify facts, and the publication does not endorse or oppose any mentioned groups. The Kodagu Express does not take responsibility for any inaccuracies or discrepancies in the content.