Amit Shah Criticizes Kerala Government’s Response to Wayanad Landslide
New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, highlighting the Kerala government’s inadequate response to early warnings about a potential natural calamity in Wayanad. Shah revealed that the state was alerted as early as July 23 regarding heavy rains and the imminent risk of a landslide, with nine National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams dispatched the same day.
Despite these warnings and the arrival of NDRF battalions, Shah criticized the Kerala government for failing to act promptly. He assured the House that the Narendra Modi administration remains steadfast in its support for both the Kerala government and the affected residents during this crisis. Shah promised comprehensive assistance from the central government to manage the situation effectively.
During the short duration calling attention motion on the Wayanad landslide tragedy, Shah refuted opposition claims questioning the central government’s early warning systems and response efforts. He emphasized that two warnings were issued: one on July 23 and another on July 24, ahead of the July 30 landslide.
“Nine NDRF battalions were sent on July 23, and three additional teams were deployed on July 30,” Shah stated. He also noted that other states, such as Odisha and Gujarat, have effectively utilized early warnings to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters, including cyclones.
Shah suggested that had the Kerala government acted upon the early warnings and the presence of NDRF teams, the extent of the damage might have been less severe.
In response to the calling attention motion, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai reported that 133 bodies have been recovered so far, with the death toll expected to rise.
