New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Thursday took suo motu cognizance of the alarming rise in suicides among tribal people in the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, noting 23 deaths reported in 2024 alone.

“As per reported rough estimates, around 138 happened mostly in Peringammala Panchayat in the district between 2011-2022,” NHRC said in a press statement. Taking serious note of the issue, the commission issued notices to the Kerala Chief Secretary and Director General of Police, seeking a detailed report within two weeks.

Based on a media report from December 25, 2024, the NHRC observed that most of the deceased were aged between 20 and 30. It termed the incidents a grave issue affecting the “life and social, economic, and cultural rights” of Scheduled Tribes in the region.

“Suicides among young people from a vulnerable community represent a human rights violation requiring immediate government attention. The State is duty-bound to ensure the safety and security of every citizen,” the commission stated.

The NHRC directed that the report from the Kerala government should include details on FIRs filed, arrests made, compensation provided to the victims' families, and steps taken or proposed to prevent such incidents in the future.

The commission also noted that, according to families and tribal activists, the suicides stem from extreme social stress, harassment linked to marriages and relationships outside the community, and issues such as growing liquor and sex rackets.