In response to the devastating landslide that struck Wayanad, the Kerala government has issued an order requesting all government employees to contribute a minimum of five days’ salary to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). This fund will be utilized to support the rehabilitation efforts for those affected by the landslide.
According to the order, the salary challenge will be implemented in three instalments, starting from September. Employees will have one day’s salary deducted in September, followed by two days’ salary deductions in both October and November. While the salary challenge is not mandatory, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged all government employees to participate and not abstain from contributing. Employees will be required to submit a consent letter to authorize the deduction from their salary.
The funds raised through this initiative will be kept in a separate account to ensure transparency and proper utilization for the relief efforts. The order applies to employees across various sectors, including government offices, public sector units, boards, universities, aided institutions, local governing bodies, commissions, and tribunals.
The current salary challenge differs from previous instances, such as those implemented during the 2018 flood and the COVID-19 outbreak. This time, the government held discussions with service organizations before reaching the decision to request five days’ salary. Some pro-UDF service organizations had initially expressed concerns and threatened protests if the contribution were made compulsory. Taking this into account, the government clarified that the contribution is voluntary, although strongly encouraged.
Employees who wish to contribute more than the five days’ salary can opt for a scheme that allows deductions in up to 10 instalments. Additionally, those interested in contributing through other means, such as their Provident Fund (PF) or by surrendering earned leave, are also given that option.
This collective effort by government employees aims to provide much-needed relief and support to those impacted by the landslide, helping them rebuild their lives in the wake of the disaster.
