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.
![[Wayanad Landslides] Kerala High Court Says 'Inaccurate' Data on Disaster Relief Funds by SDMA](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/H.C-Kerala.jpg?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Kerala High Court criticized the state government and the State Disaster Management Authority for providing inaccurate figures on disaster relief funds for Wayanad landslide victims. Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and Mohammed Nias C.P. urged clarity on fund allocation and utilization, emphasizing the need for precise data in seeking central assistance.
![[Wayanad Landslide] Kerala HC Urges Swift Compensation for Wayanad Landslide Victims](https://i0.wp.com/lawchakra.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/wayanad-landslides-312438147-16x9_0-jpg-690%C3%97388-10-30-2024_03_50_PM.png?resize=447%2C367&ssl=1)
The Kerala High Court has directed the state to expedite compensation for Wayanad landslide victims, citing reports of delayed payments. Emphasizing the need for efficient relief, the court instructed funds to be disbursed via treasury or bank accounts. The Central government is also considering declaring the landslide a national disaster. The case is set for further hearing on November 15.
Today, On 4th October, the Kerala High Court questioned the Central government’s delay in disbursing disaster relief funds for Wayanad, which suffered severe landslides. The court noted neighboring states received allocations while Kerala awaited assistance. It ordered a detailed response from the National Disaster Management Authority by October 18 and emphasized the need for timely fund disbursement.
The Kerala High Court has expressed concern over the Wayanad landslides, attributing them to human “apathy and greed.” The court initiated a PIL to prompt the state government to reconsider its approach to sustainable development. It plans to review policies on natural resource exploitation, environmental preservation, disaster management, and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for immediate corrective action.
The Kerala High Court seeks comprehensive measures to prevent environmental disasters like the Wayanad floods. It will hold weekly hearings to monitor rehabilitation progress, identify vulnerable areas, and ensure disaster prevention. With over 200 casualties and extensive damage, the court emphasizes the need for a balanced development approach and policy review.
Today(on 9th August), The Kerala High Court emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to development in light of recent landslides in Wayanad, stressing the importance of assessing the social, economic, and ecological impacts of developmental activities. The Court appointed an Amicus Curiae to offer recommendations on refining policies for environmental conservation and directed the State to prioritize environmental preservation and sustainability. The Court urged urgent action and reevaluation of existing practices.
The Kerala High Court initiated suo motu proceedings to consider and address the issues that led to the devastating landslides that hit Wayanad district last week. The Court had reserved its verdict in the matter on July 29, the day before the landslides struck the district. It decided to reconsider the matter again in view of the landslides and the destruction unleashed by the same.
