Says it is the right of the people of the flood-hit State

Congress president Rahul Gandhi has demanded more Central assistance to the flood-hit Kerala as it is the ‘right of the people of the State.’ Interacting with mediapersons here on Wednesday before leaving for the flood-ravaged areas in Idukki, Mr. Gandhi said the funds sanctioned by the Centre so far were insufficient. The Centre should give more support to the State, he said.

Asked about the Centre’s stance that no external aid was required for the rehabilitation of the victims and reconstruction of the facilities, Mr. Gandhi said that funds could be received if it were unconditional ones. ‘‘If asked personally, I would say that external aid could be sought,’’ he said.

Fixing responsibility

The Congress president declined to comment on fixing the responsibility for the floods and the recommendations of the Madhav Gadgil panel report on the Western Ghats.

‘‘I don't want to politicise the issue. I came here to see for myself the flood situation and to offer my support to the victims,’’ he said.

On the trauma suffered by the victims, Mr. Gandhi said they needed counselling support. There was tension in relief camps. There were complaints regarding the distribution of the initial compensation amount of ₹10,000 to the victims, he said. Mr. Gandhi said he had discussed the issue with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Later, Mr. Gandhi flagged-off vehicles carrying relief materials mobilised by Congress workers at the Marine Drive. The District Congress Committee had collected the materials in 40 vehicles.

He then left for Idukki as the Wayanad programme was cancelled due to inclement weather. From Idukki, he returned to Kochi in the afternoon and left for Bengaluru.