Thu Apr 10 12:50:39 UTC 2025: ## Kerala High Court Orders Review of Loan Waivers for Wayanad Landslide Victims
**Kochi, Kerala – April 10, 2025** – The Kerala High Court has directed the Indian Union government and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to explore the possibility of using Section 13 of the Disaster Management Act to waive loans for survivors of the devastating Wayanad landslides.
The court’s order, delivered Thursday, follows a suo moto case initiated in response to the landslides. While the government stated that loan rescheduling and restructuring are possible under Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, the court noted that Section 13 grants the NDMA the power to directly order loan waivers. The court criticized the NDMA’s inaction, calling it a “complete abdication of responsibility,” particularly given the government’s classification of the landslides as “severe.”
The court highlighted the disparity between the RBI’s guidelines, which focus on rescheduling, and the need for loan waivers in such a catastrophic situation. It contrasted the government’s approach with that of Kerala Bank, which has already waived loans for affected individuals. The judges emphasized the plight of victims who have lost livelihoods and are reliant on government assistance.
The court’s directive compels the Union government and the NDMA to reconsider their approach and actively consider using their powers under Section 13 to provide relief to the landslide survivors. The case underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the extent of government responsibility in providing aid after natural disasters.
First Piper 