The central government has declined Kerala’s request to declare the landslides in Wayanad’s Mundakkai and Chooralmala regions a “national disaster.” Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityananda Rai, conveyed this decision to K.V. Thomas, Kerala’s special representative in New Delhi. Kerala had previously appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking central intervention for the severe landslide damage that has claimed approximately 420 lives and injured many.
The central government’s response highlighted that state disaster management funds are adequate for handling the aftermath. Kerala’s Advocate General also confirmed the state’s substantial funds, with a disaster relief reserve currently holding Rs. 394.99 crores. Furthermore, the central government has already allocated Rs. 388 crores to Kerala in two installments for disaster-related expenditure.
The central authorities reiterated that primary responsibility for managing the relief and recovery efforts falls under the state’s jurisdiction, advising Kerala to utilize its existing funds to assist survivors, compensate families, and rebuild the affected areas. This stance from the central government presents a challenge to Kerala, which now faces the extensive task of rebuilding Mundakkai and Chooralmala without additional national-level support.
Despite Kerala’s appeal for national disaster recognition, the central government’s stance has placed the responsibility solely on state resources, reinforcing the view that states should independently manage such crises with allocated funds. This response has created a complex scenario for Kerala as it struggles to restore normalcy in Mundakkai and Chooralmala. Local leaders and residents express concern that while the existing funds cover immediate relief efforts, they may fall short in addressing the long-term rebuilding needed to bring life back to these devastated areas. For now, Kerala must proceed with the available resources to rehabilitate affected communities, while advocating for more comprehensive disaster management support in the future.
