Kerala's Struggle: Conditional Loan Sparks Outrage Over Disaster Aid

Kerala's Revenue Minister criticizes the Centre for sanctioning a Rs 529.50 crore loan with stringent conditions for Wayanad rehabilitation. The state government faces challenges in utilizing the funds by March 31, sparking criticism from local leaders and affected residents over the Centre's approach to disaster aid.

Kerala's Revenue Minister, K Rajan, has expressed outrage over the central government's decision to offer a Rs 529.50 crore loan for Wayanad rehabilitation under stringent conditions. He described the terms as a 'cruel joke' that disregard the plight of landslide victims and the state's financial needs.

During a press briefing, Rajan highlighted the impracticality of the Centre's directive to utilize the loan amount by March 31, labeling it as an 'impossible' task. The conditions further require prompt allocation to implementing agencies, and any delays will result in Kerala paying additional interest.

Local leaders and affected residents have criticized the Centre's approach, likening it to passing the buck. With over 200 lives lost in previous landslides, frustration mounts as the state grapples with meeting the strict deadlines imposed for using the funds.

(With inputs from agencies.)