Kerala’s Revenue Minister K Rajan has strongly criticized the Central Government for the five-month delay in declaring the Wayanad landslide a ‘disaster of severe nature’. Rajan emphasized that an earlier declaration—ideally within two months of the calamity—would have significantly improved relief and rehabilitation efforts.
The Wayanad landslide, which caused immense damage and loss of life, had prompted repeated appeals from the Kerala government to secure financial aid under the 2005 Disaster Management Act. Despite the eventual declaration, the Centre has yet to respond to Kerala’s demand to waive existing loans and provide fresh financial assistance to affected families.
Adding to the concerns, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) clarified that it cannot mandate banks to waive loans, leaving the decision to individual banks’ discretion.
The delay in declaration and the absence of concrete financial measures have sparked frustration among state officials and affected residents, who continue to call for immediate action and support to rebuild their lives.
