Opposition Leader V D Satheesan Condemns Kerala Government's Handling of Wayanad Landslide Rehabilitation
In a scathing critique, Opposition leader V D Satheesan on Tuesday launched a fierce attack on the Kerala state government, highlighting what he termed as severe failures in the rehabilitation efforts for victims of the Wayanad landslides. Speaking to the media in Mananthavady, Wayanad, as part of the Puthu Yuga Yatra, Satheesan expressed deep concern over the ongoing distress faced by survivors months after the tragic Mundakkai–Chooralmala disaster.
Allegations of Fund Misuse and Inadequate Relief
Satheesan alleged that despite having a substantial sum of Rs 1684 crore available—comprising allocations from the Chief Minister's Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF) and central assistance—the government has failed to properly utilize these public contributions to address the urgent needs of affected families. He pointed out that many survivors still lack basic infrastructure, such as roads or bridges to access their agricultural lands, and several eligible victims have been unjustly excluded from government beneficiary lists.
"Why is the money collected from people to help the poor not being used to support eligible victims?" Satheesan questioned, emphasizing the government's apparent reluctance to spend funds earmarked for disaster relief. He further noted that follow-up medical assistance has been neglected, and compensation for those who lost homes and traders who suffered losses remains pending.
Congress's Housing Initiative and Government Delays
In contrast, Satheesan highlighted the Congress party's proactive approach, announcing a housing project for disaster-affected families. He revealed that 3.5 acres of land have been acquired in the first phase, with procedures underway to secure an adjacent plot. Construction is set to begin immediately after registration, showcasing a swift response compared to the government's prolonged delays.
"The government took one year to identify land, while we completed the process in just four months. Despite this efficiency, we are facing unwarranted attacks on social media," Satheesan stated. He also referenced the Chief Minister's admission in the assembly that land acquisition in Wayanad requires careful legal scrutiny, underscoring the complexities involved.
Support from Karnataka and IUML
Adding to the relief efforts, Satheesan mentioned that the Karnataka government has provided funds for constructing 100 houses in Kerala, with the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) already completing 52 houses. He assured that Congress will also construct and hand over houses to beneficiaries, demonstrating a collaborative approach to addressing the crisis.
Cultural Figures and Political Criticism
Responding to remarks by poet K Satchidanandan opposing continuity in power, Satheesan praised the cultural figure for his courage in speaking openly. He asserted that principled Communists and Left sympathizers, more than the United Democratic Front (UDF), desire the removal of the CPM from power.
"Satchidanandan is a cultural figure who showed the courage to speak openly. Writer Sara Joseph also stated that a third Pinarayi government should never happen. What cultural figures are expressing reflects the public mood in Kerala," Satheesan said. He further alleged that cultural figures face intolerance and attacks for expressing dissenting views, highlighting a broader issue of freedom of expression in the state.
Overall, Satheesan's statements underscore a critical assessment of the Kerala government's disaster management and rehabilitation policies, calling for immediate action to support the Wayanad landslide victims and ensure transparency in fund utilization.
