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Thithimathi: The Codava National Council (CNC) Chairperson, N.U. Nachappa, has accused the government of neglecting homestays run by the indigenous Kodava community in favour of resorts operated by outsiders.
Nachappa alleged that the government has colluded with external forces, including a "Big Timber Mafia," to exploit the Western Ghats' natural resources and encourage large-scale land grabbing through leases. Many of these lands were traditionally owned by Kodavas, he said.
According to Nachappa, the government is deliberately diverting attention from these malpractices by tarnishing the image of eco-friendly homestays, many of which are run by Kodava women, contributing to their economic empowerment. "The goal is to snatch that business and divert it to resort mafias," he stated.
He further highlighted the cultural and ecological significance of homestays, which offer guests a taste of Kodava culture and ethnic food without harming the environment. In contrast, he accused resorts of being commercial operations that launder black money and cause environmental damage, including deforestation and destruction of water sources, which could lead to disasters like the landslides seen in Wayanad, Kerala.
Recently, the CNC organised a peaceful human chain protest in Thithimathi, opposing alleged land conversions in Kodagu, expressing their concerns over the environmental and cultural degradation brought by the increasing number of resorts in the region.
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