Setting aside political differences with the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government in Kerala, Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju on Saturday lauded the State government’s relief efforts in the face of the massive dislocation and losses caused by the monsoon rain and floods.
The Union Minister, who was talking to reporters after surveying the rain havoc, along with Union Minister of State for Tourism K.J. Alphons, said he found the relief work undertaken by the local administration quite satisfactory.
“When we visited the relief camps, we found that the management being done by the local administration is very satisfactory. Those who are affected by the floods have been provided sufficient and good quality food along with proper medical care. The Union and State governments will work together to ensure that our people do not suffer in Kerala,” Mr. Rijuju said.
The Union Minister said the Prime Minister had directed him to visit and assess the situation in the State.
“We had an elaborate discussion with State Ministers and officials. We will provide relief to deceased families and those who suffered property and crop losses immediately. The Kerala government has a certain amount with them, which they will be disbursing soon. We have already released ₹80 crore from the Home Ministry which was set aside to Kerala. Looking at the situation, we have released the amount early and it will be disbursed to the needy people. I have assured the State government that we are ready to provide whatever assistance is needed to deal with the situation," he added.