Kerala passes resolution urging Centre to release aid for Wayanad landslides

The Kerala Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on Monday against the Central government's delay in extending aid to the landslide-hit Wayanad.

In Short

• Losses in Wayanad estimated at Rs 1,200 crore, says Congress MLA
• Opposition criticises Centre for not providing financial help
• Chief Minister notes past delays in central disaster aid

The Kerala Legislative Assembly on Monday unanimously passed a special resolution requesting the Centre for immediate financial aid in response to the Wayanad landslide.

Congress MLA T Siddique said, "The victims of the landslide are asking if the Prime Minister visited the place just for a photo shoot."

Moving the Opposition’s adjournment motion notice on the state government’s efforts to obtain financial aid from the Centre, Siddique stated that losses worth Rs 1,200 crore were incurred in Wayanad.

"The Central government has not given a single penny," he added.

Opposition leader VD Satheesan said the state government should exert more pressure on the Centre. "How are they ignoring us? Gujarat has received financial aid, but we haven't even been given immediate assistance. Don’t we also pay taxes? The Chief Minister has met the Prime Minister, we have written letters, and we have submitted a memorandum, but that’s not enough. We've reached a breaking point," he said.

The Kerala Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution on Monday against the Central government's delay in extending aid to the landslide-hit Wayanad.

Satheesan also criticised the state government, stating that its implementation of plans is slow and that there is a systematic failure.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan appreciated the Opposition for standing united in such matters. He said that a detailed memorandum had been submitted, but the special financial assistance due as part of the calamity relief has yet to be received.

"We have had the unfortunate experience of not receiving adequate central assistance during past disasters. It is important not to repeat such an experience in the case of the Wayanad tragedy, which has severely affected our state, drawing global attention. We still hope to receive central assistance," the Chief Minister said.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister MB Rajesh presented the special resolution. "When the Prime Minister visited the landslide site in person, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan requested central funds. However, we have yet to receive any immediate help. The Assembly unanimously requests the Centre for immediate financial aid and to write off the loans of the victims," he said.