Kolkata, Dec 9
The Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) on Monday sought prompt action by the Central government to provide assistance to the victims of the devastating landslide in Kerala's Wayanad in July this year wherein over 250 people lost their lives.
"Despite the state's urgent plea for Rs 214.68 crore in immediate relief and Rs 2,319.1 crore for comprehensive recovery and reconstruction, the Centre has failed to approve the funds even after four months. The refusal to classify the landslide as a 'calamity of severe nature' and the unwillingness to waive loans for the affected families also reflect a deeply unjust and inhumane approach, undermining the principles of federal support in times of crisis," a statement by the CPI-M Politburo read.
Earlier on Monday, senior Left leader and Kerala Chief Minister criticised Union Home Minister Amit Shah over delaying the special package to the state for the rehabilitation of the Wayanad landslide victims.
"This is the worst ever tragedy that the state witnessed but the Centre is trying to run away from doing its job. Home Minister Shah said it's because of Kerala's delayed response that funds have not been released so far. But all their (Centre) allegations against the state are baseless," the Chief Minister said.
He added that this is not the first time Home Minister Amit Shah has handled any situation like the Wayanad.
"First, HM Amit Shah spoke about a nonexistent weather report in the Parliament. But there was no such warning given to us by the Central government. His recent statement again in the Parliament must be seen in the same manner," Vijayan said.
The Home Minister had previously pointed out that the Kerala government has submitted its memo with an estimate of Rs 2,219.03 crore for recovery and reconstruction only on November 13.
Meanwhile, the CPI-M Politburo has also reiterated its stand that the Bangladesh interim government and authorities must ensure the safety and full protection of religious minorities.
"The administration seems to be ignoring the activities of the Islamist fundamentalist forces in this regard. At the same time, the politburo decried the efforts of the BJP-RSS and Hindutva outfits in India, which are seeking to whip up passions by incendiary propaganda. Such an approach will not help the interests of the minorities in Bangladesh," the statement read.