Wayanad, (UNI) AICC General secretary and Wayanad MP, Priyanka Gandhi, today urged the Kerala government to take urgent steps to immediately address the issue of long- term rehabilitation of the villagers of Chettiyalathur in Noolpuzha grama panchayat.
While addressing a meeting attended by Chettiyalathur residents, people’s representatives and district officials at the collectorate here, she said, “The issue of rehabilitation is complex and may take time to resolve . But instead of waiting for a permanent solution, a list of the people’s urgent needs should be drawn up and addressed one by one.”
She emphasized the need for immediate action on complaints regarding the lack of essential services such as roads, drinking water and electricity in the area.
A Forest department official informed the meeting that 107 general category and 16 tribal families have already been resettled from Chettyalathur as part of an ongoing rehabilitation programme. Many had to be relocated to temporary camps due to flooding during the monsoon season.
During the discussion, around ten local representatives including one Geetha highlighted that many eligible beneficiaries have yet to receive the promised Rs 15 lakh compensation under the rehabilitation scheme.
She added that if relocation becomes necessary, the tribal community is determined to move together as a group.
MLAs T Siddique, I C Balakrishnan, District Collector D R Meghasree also attended the meeting.
MP Priyanka Gandhi calls for immediate relief for residents of Wayanad
