Kerala, August 15, 2024: In the wake of the devastating landslides that ravaged the Mundakkai and Chooralamala regions of Wayanad on July 30, leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) visited the affected areas to offer support and assess the situation. The landslides, considered the worst disaster in Wayanad since the 2018 floods, have claimed over 200 lives, leaving the region in a state of shock.
The landslides were triggered by heavy rainfall, which a team of international scientists has linked to human-induced climate change. The destruction has been immense, with many survivors still grappling with the aftermath and struggling to return to normalcy.
Rahmatunnissa A., National Secretary of JIH, led the delegation, spending an entire day in Wayanad during the Independence Day celebrations. She toured the hardest-hit areas, met with those receiving treatment, and visited relief camps and temporary housing provided by local residents. Describing the devastation as “beyond comprehension,” Rahmatunnissa emphasized the need for a collaborative effort involving government agencies, NGOs, and the community to help survivors regain their dignity and rebuild their lives.
She praised the tireless efforts of government officials and volunteers from various organizations in the rescue and relief operations. During her visit, Rahmatunnissa also stopped by the People’s Foundation office in Meppadi, a key hub for ongoing relief and rehabilitation work. She lauded the foundation’s meticulous approach and relentless dedication to helping those in need.
Particularly commendable were the contributions of JIH’s women cadre in Wayanad, along with the female volunteers from the IRW team. These women have been on the frontlines since the disaster struck, assisting in rescue operations, identifying bodies, conducting post-mortems, and now focusing on counseling survivors and assessing their needs. Rahmatunnissa expressed immense pride in their work, attributing their dedication to the visionary leadership of Jamaat-e-Islami Hind since India’s independence.
She also highlighted the remarkable communal harmony in Kerala, where people from all walks of life have come together to support each other in this time of crisis. Stressing the importance of transparency and accountability, Rahmatunnissa urged that all donations and resources should reach the survivors effectively, ensuring that nothing is wasted.
Rahmatunnissa was accompanied by District President of JIH T.P. Yunus, JIH Women’s Wing District President Jameela, IRW Calicut District Coordinator Sumayya, Kunnamangalam Area President Shareefuddin, and other officials, who facilitated the visit and discussions.
