Kasaragod:
A Bhopal-like situation which needs immediate attention of authorities - That's what the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has said, after visiting those affected by the indiscriminate spraying of the pesticide Endosulfan, in Kasaragod district of north Kerala.
"After the Bhopal gas disaster, the Union Government involved itself in relief measures. In this case also, it should happen," says Justice K G Balakrishnan, Chairperson, NHRC.
According to official estimates, more than 480 people died and over 2,000 people are still suffering various physical and mental ailments, after the pesticide was aerially sprayed in state-owned cashew plantations since early 80s.
After a public outcry, Endosulfan was banned in Kerala in 2002. But environment activists are demanding a country-wide ban of the pesticide, already banned in over 60 countries.
Last month, the Kerala government announced a relief package that included increased pension, special education, housing and employment for Endosulfan victims.
"What we need is relief and rehabilitation on a war footing. But successive governments have turned a blind eye citing technicalities," said M A Rahman, Chairman, Anti-Endosulfan Campaign Committee.
Now after the NHRC's intervention, victims believe their demand for setting up a tribunal for increased compensation and other relief measures will finally be met.