A coalition of 180 civil society leaders and concerned citizens from 23 states has issued a joint statement highlighting significant concerns about the proposed Disaster Management Amendment Bill. The statement calls for the bill to be referred to a Select Parliamentary Committee for broader consultations and revisions, stressing that the amendments undermine the existing disaster management framework instead of strengthening it.
The statement, endorsed by environmental activists, fisher organizations, and disaster-affected communities, points out several key issues with the amendments. These include the removal of loan relief provisions, the exclusion of slow-onset disasters like coastal erosion and droughts, and insufficient livelihood restoration measures for affected communities.
Key Concerns Raised
1. Removal of Loan Relief Provisions
The deletion of Clause 13, which empowered the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to provide loan relief to disaster-affected individuals, has drawn sharp criticism. The statement argues that this change places an undue financial burden on disaster-hit communities, such as those affected by the recent Chooralmala Mundakai landslide in Wayanad.
The signatories demand the reinstatement of this provision, advocating for:
- Loan waivers for agriculture, housing, and self-help group (SHG) loans.
- Introduction of interest-free loans as part of recovery and rehabilitation efforts.
2. Shift from Compensation to Relief
The proposed replacement of “compensation” with “relief” in Clause 61 has been criticized for weakening the framework of support for disaster-affected individuals. The joint statement emphasizes that compensation ensures equitable restoration, while relief is often discretionary and inadequate.
3. Centralisation of Authority
The introduction of Clauses 8A and 8B centralizes decision-making and disaster fund allocation, which, according to the signatories, undermines federalism and could delay disaster response. They advocate for clear guidelines and decentralized mechanisms to ensure effective management.
4. Need for Transparency
The statement calls for mandatory public disclosure of disaster-related data, including hazard reports and disaster databases, to promote transparency and community participation.
5. Climate-Sensitive and Inclusive Approach
Highlighting India’s vulnerability to climate change, the signatories stress the need for a climate-sensitive disaster management framework. They also emphasize the importance of protecting marginalized communities—such as Dalits, Adivasis, urban poor, and informal workers—who are disproportionately affected by disasters.
Call for Broader Consultations
The statement strongly opposes the Bill’s passage without comprehensive consultations, urging the government to engage disaster-affected communities and relief organizations in the legislative process. It calls for the Bill to be referred to a Select Parliamentary Committee to create an inclusive and people-centric framework that aligns with constitutional principles and international commitments.
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