Mysuru: Overseas trade that sustains many Hakki Pikki families is also becoming a source of growing legal trouble. More than 50 of them have faced legal consequences in six countries over the past three months, prompting calls for govt-led awareness programmes.According to community leaders, 11 members faced legal action in Chad, 20 in Ghana, nine in Ivory Coast, six in Fiji, three in Mozambique and one in Senegal. In Fiji alone, losses reportedly touched Rs 80 lakh.Community representatives attribute the troubles largely to lack of awareness about visa regulations, local laws and business norms in destination countries, where many travel to sell herbal products.They have urged the state govt to organise pre-departure orientation programmes covering visa rules, local regulations, documentation requirements and business practices.“In Ghana, authorities warned our people against engaging in business activities. Many had already spent heavily on travel and were left in a difficult situation,” a community member said.Karnataka Hakki Pikki Tribal Organisation president R Puneeth Kumar said visa violations were among the most common triggers. “Many travel on tourist visas but engage in business activities. Selling herbal medicines also requires permissions from govt agencies. We advise members to obtain all necessary clearances before selling any products,” he said.Puneeth Kumar said the organisation regularly conducts awareness programmes, but migration continues due to a lack of local livelihood opportunities. “If the govt provides alternatives such as land for cultivation, this migration can be reduced,” he said.
