Eight members of Karnataka’s Hakki Pikki tribal community are stranded in Central Africa after their visas expired during a business trip to sell herbal products. They now face the threat of arrest, fines and possible imprisonment, and have appealed to the Government of India for urgent help. The incident has once again brought into light the risks faced by traditional travelling traders abroad.
Who Are the Hakki Pikki?
The Hakki Pikki are a semi-nomadic tribal community from Karnataka, especially from Davanagere, Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts. They are known for travelling to foreign countries each year to sell herbal medicines, traditional products and related goods. Their overseas trade is part of a long-standing livelihood pattern.
What Happened Abroad?
The eight members had travelled to Central Africa for business purposes. Their visas expired on 22 December 2025. After the expiry, local authorities allegedly asked each of them to pay a fine of Rs 1.5 lakh for visa renewal. They were also warned of imprisonment if the penalty was not paid within the deadline. Police are said to have seized their passports and visa documents, leaving them unable to travel back to India.
Appeal for Government Intervention
The stranded group released a video message seeking immediate intervention from the Ministry of External Affairs. They said they had no money to pay the fines and were living in fear. The Karnataka Hakki Pikki Tribal Association has also submitted a representation to Davanagere MP Dr. Prabha Mallikarjun. Community leaders have urged diplomatic action to secure their safe return.
Past Evacuation and Wider Concern
This is not the first time Hakki Pikki traders have faced danger overseas. In 2023, more than 150 members of the community were stranded in Sudan during internal conflict and were evacuated under Operation Kaveri. The present case has renewed concern over the safety, documentation and consular support available to Indian traders working abroad.
Last Modified: April 27, 2026