The Kerala High Court has mandated the state authorities to construct a sufficient number of e-toilets to accommodate approximately 300 families residing in the locality. Additionally, they are required to submit a report on the progress of this initiative to the court.

The Division Bench, led by Chief Justice A. J. Desai and Justice V. G. Arun, issued this directive in response to a petition filed by Aryadan Shouketh, the former Chairperson of Nilambur Municipality and a community advocate residing in Vaniyampuzha colony in Pothugal Grama Panchayat. Shouketh raised concerns regarding severe human rights violations and injustices experienced by tribal communities in Pothugal, Vazhikadavu, and Karulai villages in Nilambur Taluk.

The petitioners argue that approximately 300 tribal families living along the Chaliyar and Punnapuzha rivers suffered significant consequences from the destructive floods in 2018 and 2019. They assert that their homes have become uninhabitable and that they have been cut off from the mainland, resulting in a loss of access to essential facilities such as hospitals, ration shops, and schools, due to a collapsed bridge.

The Court stated that it will address other related issues, including the reconstruction of the bridge, in the upcoming hearings.

The matter is next posted on July 17.

The plea has been moved through Advocates Peeyus A. Kottam, Hrithwik D. Namboothiri, and Ragesh Chand R.G.

Case Title: Aryadan Shouketh & Anr. v. Union of India & Ors.

Case Number: WP(C) NO. 24828 OF 2023