The Kerala High Court on Wednesday slammed the central government for refusing to write off bank loans for people hit by the July 30, 2024 Wayanad landslides. The disaster ripped through four villages, leaving more than 200 dead, hundreds injured, and 32 people still missing.
A two‑judge bench voiced strong disappointment at the Union government’s stance. The court called the government’s arguments “bureaucratic babble’’ and accused it of hiding behind a claim of powerlessness. “Explain why the Centre says it can’t act, but still stands behind it,” the judges urged during the hearing.
The court was responding to the central government’s claim that no law allows banks to waive loans for natural‑disaster victims. The judges countered that it was not a matter of legal power, but of willingness. “If you’re unwilling to help, admit it,” they told the government’s counsel. The judges urged transparency, insisting the Centre must be honest with Kerala’s citizens about its position.
The bench also told the government it would not issue any direct orders on the matter, citing constitutional limits and a desire not to overstep. Instead, the court asked the Union to provide a list of banks it controls. It noted that some state‑run banks, such as Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank, have already waived loans for affected families.
The High Court plans to involve those banks in the case. It said it would serve them notices and temporarily halt recovery action while the banks respond. The judges also opened the floor for the banks to file a counter‑affidavit after two weeks, asking them whether they will fully or partially waive the loans and to give reasons if they refuse.
This move comes amid growing calls across Kerala for swift financial relief to landslide victims. The court’s criticism highlights a clash between state and central authorities over disaster relief and financial aid, and it underscores the urgency of transparent decision‑making in times of crisis.
Source: ianslive
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