ABSTRACT
Criminal classes in Madras province were largely confined to two predatory communities: Yerukulas and Yanadis. The colonial government started the notion of crime and criminality among various other communities in south India based on their experiences dealing with these tribes. Throughout India separate settlements were carved out for these tribes and they were kept under the management of Christian, Hindu, Muslim, and governmental organizations. Bureaucrats considered plans for educating the Yerukulas and Yanadis residing outside the settlements. Generally, Yerukulas and Yanadis were tribes that settled down in different parts of Madras Presidency. The local government authorities had asked the missionaries and police to put an end to such evil practices followed by adults in the settlements. Yerukala caste panchayats were ruthless and women are often treated in a humiliating manner. Yerukulas and Yanadis were tribes that settled down in different parts of Madras Presidency. They were largely found in village communities and seen in groups of three to seven families.
