Kalpetta (Wayanad): BJP leader V. Muraleedharan faced strong criticism after downplaying the impact of the recent Wayanad landslides, claiming that only three wards in two panchayats were affected.

Muraleedharan dismissed reports suggesting that the entire region had been devastated, emphasizing that only a small portion of Wayanad district was impacted. He also stated that discussing the disaster emotionally was unnecessary.

The remarks, made by the former Union Minister amid ongoing protests over insufficient central assistance for Wayanad, have sparked a backlash. Muraleedharan further questioned the need for additional funds, noting, “The state government has requested Rs 214 crore, but it already has Rs 788 crore in its hands. When I have 800 crores in my hand, how can they claim the Centre hasn’t provided anything?”

Muraleedharan’s comments have been condemned by local leaders, including Kalpetta MLA T. Siddique, who called them disrespectful and an insult to the victims. “Aren’t the people in the three wards human beings?” Siddique said, challenging the BJP leader’s statements.