CPI M Calls for Unified Protest Against Central Government's Negligence in Wayanad Disaster

Kollam: The CPI(M) state conference in Kollam strongly condemned the central government’s blatant negligence in providing necessary funds to relocate and rehabilitate the victims of the Mundakkai Chooralmala landslide in Wayanad. The resolution adopted in state conference called for a unified and resilient protest against the government’s inattention, asserting that the Centre’s actions have shown an apparent disregard for the welfare of Kerala. This neglect, they argue, borders on the diabolical, as the government continues to withhold the necessary financial aid to help the victims.

On June 30, 2024, a devastating landslide struck Wayanad, claiming 298 lives. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan led the rescue efforts alongside four cabinet ministers who worked tirelessly to save those affected. Despite these efforts, the road to recovery remains long and uncertain. The Kerala government has estimated that approximately 1,200 crore is needed to rebuild Wayanad. The state has already allocated 750 crore as part of the first segment in its budget.

Despite these efforts, the central government has failed to respond adequately. Even though the Prime Minister visited Wayanad and promised relief aid, no tangible assistance has been provided. The Kerala government has submitted a memorandum detailing the catastrophic loss caused by the landslide to central officials and the Prime Minister, but as of yet, no action has been taken.

According to the Post Disaster Needs Assessment, around 2,221 crore is needed to rebuild Wayanad fully. However, while other states in India have received significant aid from the central government for less severe natural calamities, Kerala has been deliberately overlooked. In an almost callous display of neglect, the Centre has only provided ₹529.5 crore as a long-term repayable loan to rebuild Wayanad. The unrealistic deadline of March 31 for disbursing these funds underscores the central government’s indifference towards the suffering of the people of Kerala.

By refusing to allocate the necessary funds, the central government is not only questioning the principles of cooperative federalism but also conveying that Kerala is seen as an adversary rather than a partner. This glaring disregard for the state’s needs has sparked outrage, and CPI M is now preparing to launch a statewide strike against the Centre’s discriminatory policies. CPI M urges all people, irrespective of caste, religion, or race, to protest against the central government’s negligence in the Wayanad disaster.