Madikeri: Advocate and writer KP Balasubrahmanya said Kodavas are seeking protection of their identity and not denying anyone else’s rights.Speaking at the seminar organised by the Codava National Council (CNC) to mark the World Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, in Madikeri on Saturday, he described the Kodavas as indigenous people of Kodagu and said they should be recognised as a distinct community in the Constitution and must be identified separately in the 2027 national census. He said such recognition was necessary to preserve their identity, land and culture.He urged support for the CNC’s long-running campaign for Kodava rights. Former Rajya Sabha member L Hanumanthaiah said Kodavas risk losing their identity and constitutional protections if they are absorbed into larger dominant communities.Folklore researcher Mullengada Revathi Poovaiah spoke on the richness of the Kodava language and heritage, saying Kodava folk traditions have a history of about 4,500 years. Senior high court advocate MT Nanaiah appealed for support to the CNC’s 36-year movement.CNC president NU Nachappa said the organisation has been demanding Kodava Land status under Articles 244 and 371 and the sixth Schedule of the constitution.
