As the picturesque district of Wayanad in Kerala grapples with the havoc caused by massive landslides, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a nationalist organisation often vilified by left-liberals, has stepped up to provide crucial assistance to the affected people. In stark contrast, Congress party’s Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra had planned to visit the disaster-hit area. They canceled their trip citing “incessant rains and adverse weather conditions.”
RSS on the Ground
Despite the challenging conditions, RSS volunteers are on the ground, offering indispensable help to the people of Wayanad. The landslides have caused extensive damage, destroying homes, roads, uprooting trees, and causing flooding in water bodies. Amidst this destruction, the Indian Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are leading rescue operations, with RSS and Sewa Bharati volunteers providing significant support.
These volunteers are actively involved in locating and retrieving bodies, organizing food camps to feed and shelter those who have lost everything, and helping bereaved families identify their loved ones. Additionally, they are ensuring the respectful last rites for those who have perished.
Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra’s Absence
Rahul Gandhi explained their decision to postpone the visit:
“Priyanka and I were scheduled to visit Wayanad tomorrow to meet with families affected by the landslide and take stock of the situation. However, due to incessant rains and adverse weather conditions, we have been informed by authorities that we will not be able to land. I want to assure the people of Wayanad that we will visit as soon as possible. In the meantime, we will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide all necessary assistance. Our thoughts are with the people of Wayanad at this difficult time.”
Similarly, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her sentiments:
“My brothers and sisters in Wayanad, even though we cannot come to Wayanad tomorrow, our hearts are with you at this tragic hour and we are praying for all of you.”
Local Efforts by RSS and Sewa Bharati
While the Congress leaders’ “thoughts” and “hearts” are with Wayanad, RSS volunteers are making tangible efforts to mitigate the disaster’s impact. They are transporting injured individuals to hospitals, clearing debris to facilitate emergency vehicle access, and providing essentials to those in need. According to an Organiser report, Sewa Bharati volunteers are operating a mobile mortuary at Ch Chitagni Churalmala, allowing dignified disposal of deceased bodies, a service utilized by many in the Christian community.
Community and National Impact of RSS
Nearly 150 people have lost their lives due to the landslides in Wayanad. The efforts of the RSS and Sewa Bharati volunteers highlight their commitment to serving the community regardless of religion or caste, a contrast to the political narratives often pushed by Rahul Gandhi. Despite facing criticism and targeting in the Left-ruled state, the RSS remains dedicated to aiding common people in times of crisis.
As the district continues to recover from the devastating landslides, the presence and assistance of the RSS and other volunteer organisations provide a beacon of hope and resilience for the people of Wayanad.