Wayanad By-Election Highlights Landslide Survivors' Struggles Amid Political Contest
- Posted on October 27, 2024
- News
- By Arijit Dutta
- 152 Views
The Wayanad by-election on November 13 has highlighted the demands of July 30 landslide survivors, who seek prompt rehabilitation, loan waivers, and housing aid. Amid local protests and political disputes among candidates Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, Sathyan Mokeri, and Navya Haridas, survivors remain focused on urgent relief and housing.
With the Wayanad Lok Sabha by-election set for November 13, issues surrounding the rehabilitation of July 30 landslide survivors have become central. The landslide disaster in Kerala's Wayanad claimed 231 lives, leaving 47 people still unaccounted for, according to government records. Key concerns for survivors include delays in land acquisition for housing, demands for loan waivers, increased rent assistance, and immediate relief aid. The rehabilitation process has been stalled as estate owners challenge land acquisition efforts in the Kerala High Court.
This by-election, prompted by Rahul Gandhi's resignation to retain his Rae Bareily seat, has generated a heated race among Left Democratic Front (LDF) candidate Sathyan Mokeri, United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Navya Haridas. Mokeri praised the state’s Left-led government for its support of survivors while criticizing the BJP-led central government for insufficient aid. Priyanka Gandhi expressed empathy for survivors in a heartfelt letter, while local Congress leaders criticized the central government for lacking support. Meanwhile, BJP candidate Haridas highlighted Prime Minister Modi’s personal outreach to survivors, alleging Kerala's state government has failed to disburse union funds for relief.
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Survivors, frustrated by political disputes and unmet demands, are preparing protests to bring attention to their issues. Janasabdham Action Committee, representing impacted areas, plans to stage a protest during Priyanka Gandhi's campaign to amplify their calls for relief. As political figures turn their attention to Wayanad, the survivors’ basic needs and housing concerns underscore the urgency of prompt action beyond political rhetoric.
