Gouda Community Submits 6-Point Charter of Demands to District Collector

Manas Mallik, Odishabarta

Malkangiri – 06/10/26:A gathering was organized by the district Gouda community to address issues concerning their rights and social security in Malkangiri district. Representatives from various parts of the district participated and deliberated on the community’s challenges and rights. Under the leadership of the community president, Mr. Mangaraj Hantal, a peaceful procession was organized from the Malkangiri bus stand to the District Collector’s office.

 Despite a large number of Gouda community members residing in Malkangiri district, many face difficulties in accessing the benefits of government schemes are being deprived. Although the Gouda community has been included in the Scheduled Tribe category, there are complaints that they are not receiving the necessary facilities in many areas.

On this occasion, the Gouda community presented a six-point charter of demands. These demands include hostel facilities for Gouda students during their primary education, the granting of land rights (pattas) to families residing on forest land, reservation for political representation in the district, enhanced benefits under the ‘Palli Ghara’ housing scheme, protection of livelihoods based on cow dung and cow urine, and the formation of a special development council for the upliftment of the Gouda community.

Representatives of the community urged the administration and the government to prioritize these demands and take immediate action. demanded that it be included. Many members and office-bearers of the district’s Gouda community were present at the gathering