Fact finding missions undertaken by human rights defenders only served to confirm their worst fears. In the post-tsunami relief and rehabilitation phase, the following social groups were found to experience social exclusion and discrimination.

• The Dalit and indigenous communities in the coastal area

• Women (especially girls and young women, single women, widows, and women-headed families)

• Children

• Elderly people

• Minorities (ethnic, linguistic and religious)

• People with disabilities, the differently-abled, and those with Special needs

• Inland people

• Labourers and traders

• People affected by calamities

• Others in specific situations