World · India Bureau
Kerala rights panel orders rehabilitation for tribal families in makeshift shelters
A human rights commission has intervened to ensure rehabilitation for Vaniyampuzha tribal families who have lived in temporary plastic structures for seven years following devastating floods. The suo motu case was registered after authorities failed to provide permanent housing solutions since the 2019 disaster.
LSN India ·
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered immediate action to rehabilitate tribal families in Vaniyampuzha district who have endured seven years of hardship in plastic tent shelters. The families lost their homes during catastrophic floods in August 2019, and subsequent rehabilitation efforts by local authorities proved inadequate, leaving vulnerable populations in precarious living conditions.
The commission's intervention came after a detailed investigation revealed the extent of the humanitarian crisis affecting the tribal community. Despite nearly a decade passing since the natural disaster, no permanent housing or comprehensive rehabilitation programme had been implemented for the displaced families.
The order directs relevant government agencies to develop and execute a rehabilitation plan that addresses immediate shelter needs alongside long-term livelihood solutions. Authorities have been instructed to conduct surveys to determine the exact number of affected families and assess their requirements comprehensively.
The case highlights persistent gaps in disaster relief mechanisms in the region, particularly for marginalised tribal communities. Officials from multiple departments have been asked to coordinate and submit action plans within a specified timeframe to ensure the families transition from temporary shelters to permanent housing and economic stability.