Udupi : Lack of education and knowledge are responsible for atrocities and harassment of Koragas. The Koraga community members should be cautious and get educated, said Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis.

Speaking at the ‘Panchayat Nade – Koraga Samudayadege’ organised by the Alevoor Gram Panchayat on Sunday, she said that Udupi is a forerunner in the human index report. “There have, however, been atrocities on Dalits. There is a need to eradicate derogatory practices like untouchability in society. Houses are being provided for Koragas through ITDP. Koragas should work under the MGNREGS to earn Rs 22,000 annually,” she advised.

The Army recruitment will be held at Vijayapura in the month of May and SSLC, PUC passed out Koraga youth can apply with the BEO or at the DDPI office. The aspirants will be given one-month training in April.

A Sahabhojana – community meal – of government officers, elected representatives with the members of the Koraga community was organised at the house of Sundari and Tukra couple at Siddhartha Nagara Koraga Colony of Alevoor. MLC Kota Srinivas Poojary, former MLA Raghupathy Bhat, ZP president Dinakar Babu, vice president Sheela Shetty and the DC were served by Koraga women.

Tukra, who has lost strength in one of his leg after a fall while working, appealed to the DC to help him in repairing his house.