The devastating landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, India in July 2024 has sparked intense debate about whether it highlights deep-seated issues of government negligence or reflects the darker side of political manoeuvring. The tragedy, which resulted in significant loss of life and property, has prompted scrutiny of both local and national responses to climate-induced disasters.
Critics argue that the Wayanad landslide reveals serious government negligence. Despite repeated warnings about the region’s vulnerability to landslides and floods, infrastructure improvements and preventative measures were insufficient. Many roads, bridges, and drainage systems failed to withstand the heavy rains, exacerbating the impact of the disaster. Emergency response plans were criticized for being outdated and poorly implemented. The lack of timely and effective evacuation and relief operations left many residents unprotected during the crisis.
On the other hand, some see the disaster as a reflection of dirty politics. Allegations have emerged that funds allocated for disaster preparedness and infrastructure development were misappropriated or used for political gain rather than addressing genuine needs in vulnerable areas. The disaster has also been used by various political factions to push their agendas, sometimes overshadowing the real needs of affected communities and delaying crucial relief efforts.