Despite 1,684cr with govt, victims neglected: Satheesan

Kozhikode: Opposition leader V D Satheesan on Tuesday came down heavily on state govt over what he described as serious lapses in the rehabilitation of Wayanad landslide victims. He alleged that despite having Rs 1684 crore at its disposal- including CMDRF allocations and central assistance- govt failed to adequately utilise funds collectively contributed by the public to address the genuine needs of the affected families.Addressing the media at Mananthavady, Wayanad as part of Puthu Yuga Yatra, Satheesan said survivors of Mundakkai–Chooralmala disaster continued to live in distress even months after the tragedy. "Many survivors still do not have roads or bridges to access their agricultural land. Several eligible victims were excluded from govt's beneficiary lists, and follow-up medical assistance was not provided. Those who lost houses and traders who suffered losses are yet to receive compensation," he said. Satheesan questioned govt's reluctance to spend public contributions meant for disaster relief. "Why is the money collected from people to help the poor not being used to support eligible victims?" he asked. Referring to the housing project announced by Congress for disaster-affected families, Satheesan said 3.5 acres of land was acquired in the first phase and that procedures were under way to acquire an adjacent plot as well. Construction would begin immediately after registration, he said. "Govt took one year to identify land, while we completed the process in just four months. Despite this, we are being attacked on social media. The CM admitted in the assembly that land acquisition in Wayanad requires careful legal scrutiny," Satheesan pointed out. He also said Karnataka govt had provided funds for the construction of 100 houses in Kerala and IUML already completed 52 houses. Congress will also construct and hand over houses to the beneficiaries, he added. ‘Satchidanandan showed courage' Responding to remarks by poet K Satchidanandan opposing continuity in power, Satheesan said more than UDF, it is principled Communists and Left fellow travellers who want CPM removed from power. "Satchidanandan is a cultural figure who showed the courage to speak openly. Writer Sara Joseph also said that a third Pinarayi govt should never happen. What cultural figures are expressing reflects the public mood in Kerala," he said. He further alleged that cultural figures were being targeted with intolerance and subjected to attacks for expressing dissenting views.