KOCHI – The Kerala High Court has issued a stern directive to the Central Government, giving it a final opportunity to decide on the loan waiver for the victims of the Mundakkai-Chooralmala landslide disaster. The court has set a deadline of September 10 for the Centre to communicate its decision.
The directive came during the hearing of a suo motu case taken up by the High Court to address the plight of the families affected by the calamity. The court’s intervention was prompted by the Central Government’s prolonged silence and inaction on the matter, despite earlier requests for a response.
The Mundakkai-Chooralmala region in the Wayanad district was hit by a devastating landslide, which resulted in significant loss of life and property. Many of the families who lost their homes and livelihoods were left burdened with outstanding loans from various banks and financial institutions.
The High Court, while acknowledging the efforts made by the state government, has consistently highlighted the need for a comprehensive solution that includes a loan waiver to provide genuine relief to the victims. The court’s latest order underscores the urgency of the humanitarian crisis and puts significant pressure on the Central Government to act decisively.
The case has been adjourned, and the court’s next course of action will depend on the response submitted by the Central Government before the deadline. The victims and their representatives are hopeful that this final push from the judiciary will lead to a favorable and swift resolution.
