rahul-launches-housing-project-for-wayanad-landslide-victims

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for 100 houses to be constructed by the Congress for victims of the 2024 landslide in Wayanad, assuring affected families of continued support. The party is building 100 houses, each measuring 1,100 sq ft on eight cents of land, for those who lost their homes in the tragedy.

Addressing families at the ceremony, Gandhi said he and his family would always stand by those who had lost everything. Recalling that he had witnessed two major landslides, he said he had seen both devastation and the resilience of people.

“You have lost a lot, but you have not lost your spirit. You never lost your courage. Most importantly, you did not lose your compassion,” he said.

Gandhi also referred to concerns raised by Priyanka Gandhi Vadra regarding alleged delays in the construction process.

“There were complexities related to permissions, land and other issues. Now, I hope it will be completed soon,” he said, describing the ceremony as a “symbol and a message” of solidarity. “In this process of recovery and healing, we are with you. We will stand with you whenever you need us,” he added.

Also read: Kerala govt clears ₹18.75 cr loans of Wayanad landslide victims

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said she had witnessed the hardship of families who lost relatives, homes and livelihoods in the landslide. She mentioned individuals such as Anyan and Hanni, who lost their farms and family members.

“We have tried our best to raise your voice in Parliament again and again. All our MPs met the Home Minister to demand that it be declared a national disaster. We wrote to the Prime Minister and held protests outside Parliament,” she said.

She said what struck her most was the courage and unity displayed by residents in the aftermath. “The way you all stood together, no matter what religion or section you belong to, you gave love and courage when it mattered most,” she said.

Vadra noted that she was not the MP when the tragedy occurred but had since become “a daughter, sister and part of the family”. She added that leaders from various political parties had contributed to the rehabilitation process.

Both leaders also distributed ₹5 lakh each to 40 people who lost their shops in the landslide. Senior Congress and UDF leaders were present at the event.