Visa Expiry Leaves Hakki Pikki Tribe Members Stranded in Africa

Eight members of Karnataka’s Hakki Pikki tribal community are facing a grave crisis in Central Africa after their visas expired, leaving them at risk of arrest and unable to return home. The incident has triggered appeals for urgent intervention by the Indian government, reviving memories of earlier overseas distress faced by the community.

Business Travel Turns Into Legal Ordeal

The Hakki Pikki community, largely based in Davanagere, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts of Karnataka, traditionally travels abroad to sell herbal medicines and indigenous products. As part of this long-standing practice, eight members travelled to Central Africa in 2025. However, their visas expired on December 22, pushing them into legal trouble with local authorities.

Fines, Passport Seizure and Fear of Arrest

According to information shared by the group, local authorities demanded a fine of around ₹1.5 lakh per person for visa renewal and warned of imprisonment if the amount was not paid. Matters worsened when local police allegedly confiscated their passports and visa documents, effectively preventing them from leaving the country. With limited funds and no access to legal support, the group is reportedly living under constant fear.

Appeal to Indian Government for Rescue

In a video message released from abroad, the stranded individuals appealed directly to the Ministry of External Affairs, urging immediate diplomatic intervention. They said they lacked the money to pay fines and requested help for the return of their passports and safe repatriation to India.

Important Facts for Exams

• Hakki Pikki is a semi-nomadic tribal community from Karnataka.
• The community is traditionally involved in selling herbal medicines.
• Visa overstay abroad can lead to fines, detention and passport seizure.
• Indian missions abroad assist citizens through consular and diplomatic channels.

Echoes of Past Crisis and Rising Pressure

Community leaders have stepped in to seek political and diplomatic support. Punit Kumar, president of the Karnataka Hakki Pikki Tribal Association, said representations have been submitted to local MPs, including Davanagere MP Dr. Prabha Mallikarjun. The episode recalls 2023, when over 150 Hakki Pikki members were stranded during conflict in Sudan and later rescued under Operation Kaveri. Families of the stranded group are now anxiously awaiting similar swift action from authorities.