Pulpally: Even as the Northeast Monsoon rages on, the tribal community in the region continues to live without safe shelter . Life in various tribal hamlets has become nightmarish due to delays in housing projects launched under multiple schemes. With the rains intensifying, life has become increasingly difficult for those living under plastic shacks in deep forests and along roadsides.

In Panamaram block alone, construction of over 200 houses for the Kattunaykka tribe under the PM Janman Housing Project has been disrupted due to official apathy. Existing homes were demolished months ago to begin the construction of new houses. Many houses are now left with only walls and floors, reportedly due to the non-allocation of funds for subsequent phases.

In Poothadi panchayat, construction of 15 houses has yet to begin. Despite submitting all relevant documents seven months ago, Gopi and Seetha from the forest hamlet in Vettathoor, Pulpally, report that they have not received any funds. In the Kattunaykka hamlet at Pallichira in Pathiri forest, construction of three houses is at various stages.

This region is frequently invaded by wild elephants, even during the day hours and after dark, residents are unable to step outside. The prolonged rainy season has brought endless hardship to the local community. Nisha, one of the beneficiaries, says that life with a toddler in the rain and cold is extremely difficult. She submitted all documents in advance, hoping the house would be completed before her delivery. However, the house remains incomplete and her child is now seven months old. It has been two months since the wooden planks for concreting were laid.

Although Leela’s house in Madappallikkunnu, Mullankolly, was completed a year ago, her family has fallen into a debt trap due to the non-release of funds. Complaints have surfaced that authorities demand unnecessary documents once construction begins. While houses under the LIFE Mission require a building permit, a government order exempts Scheduled Tribe beneficiaries in tribal hamlets. According to the order, certificates from relevant authorities are sufficient.  Though this remains the sole option for those with land or documentation, officials reportedly create obstacles by withholding funds.

Applications to local bodies must be submitted through the K-Smart portal. However, formalities cannot be completed without all required documents. Although officials have the discretionary power to process applications, they are accused of creating problems for the poor by citing technicalities. Activists from Adivasi organizations say that withholding further allocations after releasing the first and second installments is suspicious.

“Funds have now been withheld after releasing the first and second installments for construction after verifying documents. With rain continuing for months, life has been drenched in misery. Pallichira hamlet is surrounded by forest with elephants. It’s only during elections that political leaders come looking for us living without roads, water, or electricity. This time, we will chase away anyone who comes seeking votes,” said  Kuttan , a beneficiary whose house construction has been stalled in Pallichira