Context: Over a decade ago, Muria tribals fled the Dandakaranya region in Chhattisgarh due to violent conflict between left-wing extremists and the state-sponsored Salwa Judum. 

• They have taken refuge in the reserved forests of Andhra Pradesh, but primary education, safe drinking water and social welfare benefits remain distant dreams for them.

• Now they are once again facing the threat of displacement.

About Muria tribe

• Location: The Muria tribe is spread across the states of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Odisha.

• IDP Status: Their settlements in Andhra Pradesh are recognized as habitations of Internally Displaced People (IDPs). The tribal population in A.P. numbers around 6,600, and they are referred to as "Gutti Koyas" by the native tribes.

• Language: The Muria people speak Koya, a Dravidian language.

• Progressive Social Norms: The Muria tribe has a unique practice called the Ghotul, which is a community dormitory for young people to learn, socialize, and form relationships before marriage.

• Status: The Gutti Koyas held Scheduled Tribe (ST) status in Chhattisgarh, but they were denied ST status in their migrated states, such as Telangana. This lack of recognition has deprived them of essential rights and benefits.

• Festival: The most important fair celebrated by Koyas is the Sammakka Saralamma Jatra.It is celebrated once in two years on full moon day of the Magha Masam (January or February).

• Agriculture: They practice Podu form of shifting cultivation.