CPM's Govindan Accuses Opposition Leader of Spreading Lies on Landslide Victims' Rehabilitation
In a sharp political confrontation, CPM state secretary M.V. Govindan has launched a scathing attack on opposition leader V D Satheesan, accusing him of repeatedly disseminating blatant lies regarding the rehabilitation efforts for the Mundakkai–Chooralmala landslide victims. Addressing media persons in Malappuram on Tuesday, Govindan asserted that Satheesan's recent statements were deliberately crafted to mislead the public and obscure the Congress party's organisational shortcomings.
Allegations of Calculated Misinformation
Govindan specifically targeted what he termed a calculated lie propagated by the Congress, which claimed that their housing project for the victims was delayed due to the government's failure to provide land. He clarified that at a crucial meeting held on December 30, 2024, attended by both the leader and deputy leader of the opposition, the government had explicitly stated that land could not be handed over to private sponsors for constructing houses. This decision was made to ensure proper oversight and accountability in the rehabilitation process.
Furthermore, Govindan highlighted the state government's proactive measures, revealing that Rs 44 crore has already been expended to acquire land for an official rehabilitation township. This substantial investment underscores the administration's commitment to providing sustainable housing solutions for the affected families, countering the opposition's narrative of governmental inaction.
Scrutiny of UDF's Housing Initiative
Turning his attention to the UDF's separate housing initiative, Govindan pointed out significant discrepancies and delays. He noted that the project initially promised 230 houses, with allocations as follows:
- 100 houses by the Congress
- 100 houses by Rahul Gandhi
- 30 houses by the Youth Congress
However, this number has now been drastically reduced to just 100 houses, raising questions about the initiative's feasibility and transparency.
Govindan further alleged that despite funds being collected nearly one-and-a-half years ago, not a single foundation stone has been laid to date. He expressed concerns over the lack of clarity regarding the total amount collected, adding that the mobile application launched for fundraising had become non-functional at one stage, hindering progress and accountability.
This controversy highlights the ongoing political tensions in Kerala, with both parties trading accusations over disaster management and rehabilitation efforts. The allegations underscore the need for transparency and effective implementation in addressing the plight of landslide victims, as the public seeks assurance that their welfare remains a priority amidst political rivalries.
