After decades in darkness, Medaganane tribal hamlet gets electricity in Chamarajanagar

Chamarajanagar: In a significant development, Medaganane, a remote tribal hamlet in Hanur taluk under the Male Mahadeshwara Betta gram panchayat, has finally received electricity—decades after Independence. The village, which had been relying on traditional oil lamps for generations, is now connected to power supply for both households and street lighting.

The electrification was carried out by the Chamundeshwari Electricity Supply Corporation (CESC) following approvals from the Forest Department, as the hamlet lies within the Male Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary limits. Officials said the long-pending demand was addressed after sustained efforts by the district administration.

The issue had gained momentum after Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s visit to Male Mahadeshwara Betta in September 2023, during which authorities urged for electrification of 31 such hamlets in the district. Medaganane is among the first to benefit under this initiative.

Residents, who had lived without basic infrastructure for generations, expressed joy after electricity was switched on. Villagers performed पूजा rituals to celebrate the moment, marking a historic day for the community.

The development comes after a week-long protest by villagers demanding basic amenities. The agitation drew attention when a local woman, Kempamma, wrote to the Chief Minister seeking mercy killing, citing unbearable living conditions without electricity, roads, or drinking water.

Speaking to media, Kempamma highlighted the hardships faced by residents, including frequent threats from wild animals such as elephants and tigers. She said the lack of roads and power had made daily life extremely difficult.

Officials stated that plans are underway to extend electricity to 22 more hamlets in the Kollegala division. While infrastructure work in several villages is complete, final connections depend on clearances from the Forest Department.

The electrification of Medaganane marks a step forward in improving the quality of life for tribal communities living in forest areas, though challenges related to infrastructure and safety still remain.