The Central Government informed the Kerala High Court that it cannot waive loans for Wayanad landslide victims due to the removal of Section 13 from the Disaster Management Act. Only a one-year moratorium is offered. The Court emphasized more could be done, noting that Kerala Bank had already waived loans for affected individuals.
The Supreme Court of India is deliberating on a petition for financial compensation for COVID-19 victims’ families, asserting it as a legal obligation under the Disaster Management Act, 2005. The Court has mandated states to respond within four weeks, while also approving Rs. 50,000 assistance for each death caused by the virus.
The Kerala High Court on Friday (10th Jan) has noted the Central government’s approval to release Rs 120 crores in arrears for Wayanad’s disaster relief, amidst ongoing disputes over financial assistance. The funds, aimed at aiding rehabilitation from landslides, may be used prior to further financial evaluations and are in line with the Disaster Management Act.
The Kerala High Court has allowed the state government to acquire land for a model township to rehabilitate Wayanad landslide victims, dismissing petitions from Harrisons Malayalam Ltd and Elstone Tea Estates Ltd. The court mandated compensation for the land acquired and required adherence to legal compensation guidelines despite the petitioners’ objections.
Today, On 10th December, The Supreme Court urged the Centre and Karnataka to resolve drought aid issues, particularly the release of Rs.18,171 crore from the National Disaster Response Fund, with only Rs.3,819 crore granted so far. Karnataka’s plea claims violations of residents’ rights and calls for assistance due to severe drought affecting 223 taluks. Further hearings are scheduled for January.
