Thiruvananthapuram: Three new courts will be established in the state to conduct trials of NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases in the wake of the Toofan crackdown, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said. The courts will be set up in the judicial districts of Palakkad, Manjeri and Thrissur. He also announced that 11 personnel would be appointed on a permanent basis in all courts, including those in Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam.

The Chief Minister said the validity of PSC rank lists for teacher appointments had also been extended. The rank lists ranging from primary-level teachers to HSST posts have been extended by six months. He said the extension was granted as vacancies had not been reported for various reasons.

He also announced that compensation for losses suffered in the floods would start being disbursed this week. All relief camps were closed on August 14, and the government is currently verifying the statistics. The procedures will be completed this week, following which flood relief assistance will begin to be distributed, the Chief Minister said.