HISTORY OF HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATION IN NORTHERNMOST KERALA: A STUDY ON THE ENDOSULFAN ISSUES IN KASARAGOD

Abstract: Kasaragod, the last formed district in Kerala, is famous for the cultural symbiosis and use of seven local languages. The pluralistic cultural background of Kasaragod is reflects in various art forms and also the lifestyle of the people. The place was one of the major centers of foreign invasion, freedom movement and also the migration of different religions particularly Jainism, Islam and Christianity. But, nowadays it is famous for the violation of human rights with the use of a pesticide known as Endosulfan. The pesticide sprayed in the cashew plantations of Kasaragod from 1978 onwards which ultimately caused for many health issues to the people including the new born babies in this area. It resulted in diseases ranging from physical deformities, cancers, birth disorders and damages to brain and nervous system. People are still dying from the after-effects of the pesticide and hundreds of people are now living in utter misery. It destroyed not only the dreams and desires, but also the right of a group of people to live without fear. The environment activists generally considered it as an utter violation of the human right mainly for protecting the needs and interests of the Plantation Corporation in Kerala.

Keywords: - Endosulfan, Pesticide, Plantation, Health Issues, Human Rights Violation etc.