Kalpetta: The People's Action Committee in Wayanad has launched a hunger strike, demanding proper rehabilitation for landslide victims. The protest, which includes those affected by the disaster, is taking place in front of the district collectorate. The demonstrators are raising concerns over the government's delay in rehabilitation efforts and the decision to allocate only five cents of land per family as against the earlier announcement of 10 cents.

The protest began after a floral tribute was paid at Puthumala, where landslide victims were buried. The protesters claim that despite months passing since the disaster, the government has failed to initiate rehabilitation measures or even complete the land acquisition process. 

According to the government, each affected family will be provided with a 1,000-square-foot house on five cents of land. However, the victims insist that they should receive at least 15 cents. They also question why the government has abandoned its earlier promise to establish townships across two estates for resettlement.

On Sunday, Janasabdam Action Committee staged a symbolic protest in Chooralmala by setting up makeshift huts, highlighting the continued neglect of the displaced families.

Kalpetta MLA T Siddique criticised the government, stating that landslide victims have been left abandoned. "The government unilaterally announced the five-cent land allocation without consulting anyone. The victims deserve at least 10 cents of land. It is inhumane to dismiss their protest as politically motivated, as CPM leader C K Saseendran did," he said. He further accused the government of inefficiency, pointing out that even after seven months, a finalised list of affected families has not been prepared. The protest will escalate to a day-and-night strike on February 27, followed by a blockade of the collectorate on February 28, including participation from the affected families.

Meanwhile, the Left Democratic Front (LDF) is holding a protest in Delhi against the Central Government's neglect of Wayanad's landslide victims. The Wayanad district committee is leading the demonstration, which includes a day-and-night strike. Protesters, including Left leaders, Members of Parliament, CPI(M) national leaders, and affected families, marched from Kerala House to the Prime Minister’s residence. They are demanding the immediate release of rehabilitation funds and the resolution of key issues, including the night travel ban in the region.