New Delhi: Congress General Secretary and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra led a delegation of Kerala MPs on Wednesday to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking urgent financial assistance for the victims of the devastating landslides in Wayanad.

The landslides, which struck on July 30, caused massive destruction in several villages of Wayanad and claimed over 400 lives, leaving hundreds displaced and communities struggling to rebuild their lives.

Priyanka's Appeal for Humanity Beyond Politics

During the meeting, Priyanka Gandhi emphasized the need for immediate humanitarian aid, urging the Central Government to expedite the release of funds for relief and rehabilitation.

“Disasters should not be about politics. Efforts to support the victims must prioritize humanity and compassion,” Priyanka stated after the meeting.

She also highlighted that the people of Wayanad have been waiting for months with no significant aid. “The people of Wayanad don’t need excuses; they need urgent help to rebuild their lives with dignity. India is strongest when all levels of government work together to heal wounds and rebuild lives,” she added in a social media post.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah acknowledged the extent of the disaster and stated that the Centre had extended all possible assistance. However, he pointed out delays by the Kerala State Government in submitting the necessary memorandum for relief.

The State had requested ₹2,219.3 crore in relief funds, but Shah’s response did not specify when the funds would be approved or disbursed.

The landslides primarily affected the villages of Punchirimattam, Chooralmala, and Mundakkai, along with parts of Attamala in Wayanad. Families were displaced, homes and infrastructure were destroyed, and many survivors are still awaiting proper rehabilitation.

Priyanka Gandhi reiterated the importance of cooperation between the State and Central Governments to expedite aid for the affected families. The delegation, including senior Congress leaders like K.C. Venugopal, urged the Centre to prioritize the release of relief funds to ensure the timely reconstruction of homes, schools, and livelihoods in Wayanad. As the political discourse continues, the affected families in Wayanad remain hopeful for swift action to rebuild their lives.