Congress Holds Moment of Silence for Wayanad Landslide Victims and Deceased UPSC Aspirants

The Congress Parliamentary Party meeting in Parliament mourned the victims of the Wayanad landslides and the three UPSC aspirants who died in Delhi's flooding incident. The landslides have caused widespread damage and the Indian Army is actively involved in the rescue operations in Kerala.

The Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP) meeting in Parliament concluded with a solemn moment of silence for the victims of the Wayanad landslides and three UPSC aspirants who lost their lives due to flooding in Delhi. The gathering took place at Central Hall, Parliament House in the national capital.

Three UPSC candidates perished in a tragic flooding incident at the basement of Rau's IAS coaching centre in Delhi. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge expressed his condolences, saying, 'A moment of silence for the lives lost in the Wayanad landslides. Our thoughts and prayers are with the numerous families battling this devastating tragedy,' in a post on X.

At least two massive landslides hit Kerala's Wayanad on Tuesday morning, causing extensive damage. The first landslide struck Mundakkai, followed by another in Chooralmala. The catastrophes have isolated areas, washed away roads, damaged homes, and hindered rescue operations. Relief efforts continue as the community grapples with this calamity. The first landslide occurred at 2 am on July 30, followed by another at 4:10 am, causing severe damage to homes and livelihoods. Key areas, including Meppadi, Mundakkai, and Chooralmala, are heavily impacted.

The Indian Army has significantly bolstered rescue operations in Wayanad, successfully evacuating over 1,000 residents to safety. As of Wednesday morning, 70 victims have been confirmed dead. The large-scale destruction has complicated relief efforts. Kerala has declared two days of mourning until Wednesday.

Union Minister George Kurian visited Wayanad to monitor ongoing relief activities. He met with senior officials from the NDRF, CRPF, and Army, and visited a relief camp in Kalpetta. The Prime Minister's Office announced compensation for the victims' families, providing Rs 2 lakh for each deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured. The national flag flew at half-mast in mourning.

(With inputs from agencies.)