Priyanka Gandhi Slams Govt for Not Waiving Wayanad Landslide Victims’ Loans

Priyanka Gandhi

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has strongly criticized the Union government for its decision not to waive the loans of individuals impacted by the devastating landslides in Wayanad last year. The Congress MP termed the government’s stance as a “betrayal” of the people who are still struggling to recover from the disaster.

In her statement on Thursday, Priyanka Gandhi, who represents Wayanad in Parliament, expressed her disappointment with the government’s refusal to waive off loans, despite the immense hardship faced by the victims. The central government’s affidavit to the Kerala High Court highlighted that while the loans could be restructured or rescheduled, they would not be eligible for a complete waiver as per the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) guidelines for natural calamities.

“The people of Wayanad have suffered enormous losses, and they are in dire need of financial relief. The government’s decision not to waive off their loans is a clear betrayal of their trust,” Priyanka Gandhi said, emphasizing that the victims’ recovery efforts have been hindered by financial constraints.

She further condemned the government’s indifference and reiterated that the Congress party stands “shoulder to shoulder” with the people of Wayanad in their time of need. Priyanka vowed to continue pressing for a comprehensive relief package for the affected families, highlighting the lack of adequate mitigation funds for future disaster preparedness.

The Wayanad MP’s comments were a response to the central government’s legal stance, which has sparked widespread outrage among local communities and political parties in Kerala. Priyanka’s condemnation echoes a broader call for more effective disaster relief policies and stronger support for the victims of natural calamities.

As the situation remains unresolved, the Congress party and its leaders are determined to push for reforms that address the needs of disaster-stricken communities and ensure that they receive the financial aid necessary for rebuilding their lives.