'News reports doing rounds in media regarding money spent related to Wayanad disaster are factually incorrect'; Chief Minister explains

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that the news reports doing rounds in the media regarding the money spent on various items related to the Wayanad disaster are factually incorrect. This was clarified in the statement issued by the Chief Minister's office. The Chief Minister said that the figures doing the rounds were actually part of a report submitted to the Central Government, requesting additional aid in connection with the disaster.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that the memorandum contained preliminary estimates of expenses for various requirements related to the disaster. However, those estimates are now being misrepresented as the amount spent in the disaster-affected area. He alleged that some people were misinterpreting the requirements mentioned in the memorandum, which were prepared according to the guidelines of the National Disaster Response Fund.

Press release issued by CM's office
'News reports in the media regarding the amount spent on various items related to the Wayanad disaster are factually incorrect. The state government had submitted a memorandum to the central government seeking emergency additional assistance for the disaster. The memorandum mentioned preliminary estimates of expenses required for various purposes. However, the media is now misrepresenting those estimates as the actual amount spent in the disaster-affected area. The requirements mentioned in the memorandum, prepared in accordance with the guidelines of the National Disaster Response Fund, are being mispresented. This approach undermines the state government's efforts to secure central assistance related to the Wayanad landslide disaster.

Citing the memorandum, some people are spreading misinformation, alleging that the state government was exaggerating the figures and bills. This malicious campaign undermines Kerala's interests and seeks to disrupt the state's initiatives for Wayanad's rebuilding. It can be perceived as a clandestine attempt to deprive deserving disaster victims of their legitimate aid.'