How Can Priyanka Gandhi Influence Kerala CM to Expedite Support for Wayanad Landslide Victims?

Wayanad, May 21 (NationPress) In a heartfelt letter addressed to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Wayanad Lok Sabha representative Priyanka Gandhi urged him to expedite the interim support measures that the Kerala government had pledged following the devastating landslides at Chooralmala and Mundakkai, which are currently lagging in execution.

The disaster occurred on July 30, 2024, leaving approximately four villages completely ravaged and hundreds injured. Tragically, the calamity claimed over 200 lives, with 32 individuals still unaccounted for.

“The victims of this catastrophe have endured tremendous hardship and continue to struggle to rebuild their lives. Many are now entirely reliant on state government assistance for their daily needs. Thus, the gaps in implementing compensatory measures, particularly the monthly financial assistance, place them in a precarious situation. There have been numerous delays in the daily allowance of Rs 300 per individual (for two family members) and the monthly rent reimbursement of Rs 6000 per family,” stated Priyanka Gandhi.

The Wayanad MP noted that this has triggered protests among family members, emphasizing the necessity of timely financial support.

“I would also recommend that the reasons for these continuous delays be investigated promptly, and that the timely distribution of aid be accelerated,” she added.

Priyanka Gandhi included copies of representations from local MLA T. Siddique and K. Babu, President of Meppadi Grama Panchayath, for his reference.

“I must also highlight that the final beneficiaries' list for rehabilitation has yet to be published. This unfortunate delay has created significant anxiety among those who lost their homes in the disaster,” she remarked.

She stressed that the lack of a loan waiver for those who lost their means of livelihood and are grappling with growing debt remains a significant source of distress for many landslide victims.

“I kindly ask that you reconsider this request and explore the possibility of providing relief to those facing this hardship. I urge you to address the reasons for the aforementioned delays and other relevant issues as soon as possible, as almost ten months have elapsed since this tragedy struck these families,” she expressed.

The Congress MP emphasized the importance of not exacerbating the pain felt by the community, noting that the entire state of Kerala, along with the nation, stood in solidarity during the disaster.

“Now, it is our responsibility to continue supporting them as time progresses and their struggles persist. I request that you do everything within your power to ensure their voices are heard. I am confident they will greatly appreciate your intervention,” concluded Priyanka Gandhi.