Wayanad disaster: Kerala CM warns of legal action against media for ‘spreading lies’ about relief expenditure

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly criticized certain media outlets for misrepresenting the government’s initial estimate of expenses for the rescue operations in landslides-hit Wayanad as the actual amount spent. He warned of legal action against those spreading false information that could harm the state’s reputation and hinder disaster relief efforts. Vijayan accused the media of tarnishing Kerala’s image and undermining public trust in the government by spreading fake news. He emphasized the importance of truth and ethical journalism in the midst of a competitive media landscape. Vijayan clarified that the estimate was prepared based on Central norms to provide an idea of expected expenses to the Centre for assistance.