Kerala Government Clarifies Non-consensual Salary Deductions; Distributes Free Onam Kits

The Kerala Finance Department announced no salary deductions for employees without consent for the CMDRF. Relief measures include distributing free Onam kits to affected residents in Wayanad following the landslide. Financial aid is provided for victims, ensuring payments despite payment challenges.

The Finance department of the Kerala government has announced that employees who did not provide consent would not have their salaries deducted for contributions to the Chief Minister's Distress Relief Fund (CMDRF). Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) A. Jayathilak provided this clarification on Saturday.

In the aftermath of the Wayanad disaster, the government had solicited employees to contribute five days' salary to the CMDRF. Nonetheless, Dr. Jayathilak reassured employees that no deductions would be made from the salaries of those who haven't submitted a consent letter. Furthermore, Dr Jayathilak confirmed that there are no obstacles within the SPARK system for employees seeking a PF loan.

The Kerala Cabinet has resolved to distribute free Onam kits containing 13 essential food items to all ration cardholders in the regions of Wayanad affected by the recent landslides. Onam, an annual harvest festival, is significant in Kerala. Free kits will also be extended to Antyodaya Anna Yojana cardholders and welfare institution residents.

The landslides in Wayanad on July 30 devastated an area of 47.37 km2, affecting regions such as Chooralmala, Muthanga, and Mundakkai, with a death toll surpassing 400. On August 14, the Kerala cabinet subcommittee announced financial assistance of Rs 10,000 each to 379 affected families.

Payments are being processed through bank accounts, with provisions for those who have lost their passbooks or cannot remember their account numbers. Banks are assisting in identifying accounts, and new zero-balance accounts will be opened if needed to ensure funds reach the affected individuals.

(With inputs from agencies.)