Amit Shah Criticizes Kerala Government's Response to Wayanad Landslides

Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated that the Kerala government could have minimized losses in Wayanad if they had heeded the Center's early warnings about landslides. With the rising death toll, Shah emphasized that the Narendra Modi government will support Kerala regardless of political differences.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday criticized the Kerala government for not acting on early warnings issued by the Central government about potential landslides in Wayanad. He suggested that timely action could have minimized the tragic loss of 158 lives.

Speaking in the Rajya Sabha, Shah detailed that the Center had sent nine NDRF teams to Kerala on July 23 and three more subsequently. He stressed that if the state had responded promptly, many lives could have been saved. Shah assured that the Narendra Modi government stands with the people of Kerala, setting aside political differences.

Shah highlighted that early warnings were issued on July 23, followed by further alerts on July 24 and 25, warning of heavy rainfall and the possibility of landslides. Despite this, questions are being raised about the efficacy of the early warning system, which has seen Rs. 2000 crores invested since 2014.

The Minister questioned the state government’s actions post-warnings and stressed India's leading position in early disaster warnings. Rescue operations, involving 1200 personnel from various forces, continue in Wayanad. The Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force have been instrumental in evacuating over 1,000 people using man-made bridges amid challenging conditions.

Massive landslides struck Wayanad early Tuesday, causing widespread destruction in towns like Mundakkai and Chooralmala, isolating areas and washing away roads. Relief operations are ongoing amid significant damage and adverse weather conditions. (ANI)