Direct disbursal of CMDRF funds not possible, rehabilitation underway: Wayanad Collector

Wayanad District Collector D.R. Meghasree has informed the Kerala State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) that contributions made by various individuals and organisations to the Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF) for the victims of the Mundakkai landslide were being used exclusively for rehabilitation activities and could not be distributed directly to the victims.

This was stated in a report submitted by the Collector in response to a complaint seeking the disbursement of the funds collected for the victims to the rightful beneficiaries. The report was sought by KSHRC judicial member K. Baijunath.

The report said that the preparation of the beneficiary list for the rehabilitation of the Mundakkai landslide victims was in its final stages and that offers made by individuals and organisations for rehabilitation purposes would be utilised.

The District Collector said that distributing the amount directly to the victims would be tantamount to absolving the authorities of their responsibility. The government’s duty would be fulfilled only when the victims are rehabilitated. The government remains in constant touch with those who have offered support, she added.

Ms. Meghasree informed the KSHRC that the Mundakkai rehabilitation activities had not been affected by the election process. The government is paying rent for victims staying in rented houses, and land is being acquired for the construction of a township aimed at housing the victims under one roof, the Collector said.

Recording its satisfaction with the report, the commission disposed of the case.