Thu Mar 12 17:13:48 UTC 2026: ### Kochi Corporation Expedites Compensation for Konthuruthy Evictees Ahead of Elections

The Story: The Kochi Corporation Council is rushing to disburse compensation to families residing on the Konthuruthy river puramboke, as mandated by a December 16, 2025 High Court order. The council has entrusted the secretary to initiate the compensation distribution under a special rehabilitation package approved by the State Cabinet, aiming to avoid delays due to the impending Assembly election’s model code of conduct. The approved package allocates ₹14 lakh to each of the 126 affected families, totaling ₹17.64 crore. However, a funding gap of ₹4.54 crore remains, which the Corporation is seeking to address through further government requests and exploring slum eradication funds.

Key Points:

  • The Kochi Corporation Council is moving quickly to compensate families on Konthuruthy river puramboke.
  • A December 16, 2025 High Court order mandated the eviction of 126 families.
  • The State Cabinet approved a ₹17.64 crore rehabilitation package (₹14 lakh per family).
  • The Corporation faces a ₹4.54 crore funding gap and is seeking government reimbursement.
  • Political divisions exist regarding the State government’s financial support, with UDF councillors criticizing the withholding of funds and LDF councillors citing government financial constraints.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kochi Corporation is under pressure from the High Court to implement the rehabilitation package.
  • The approaching Assembly election is a significant factor driving the urgency of the compensation disbursement.
  • Financial constraints and political disagreements are complicating the process.
  • The government’s hesitancy stems from concerns about setting a precedent for rehabilitating occupants of river puramboke.
  • The political debate highlights the sensitivity of land rights and rehabilitation issues in Kerala.

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