Kerala assembly elections: Tracking the pulse of voters in Wayanad

As Kerala gears up for assembly elections, India Today's Shibimol KG tracked the pulse of the voters in Wayanad. She visited Chooralmala, site of the devastating 30 July 2024 landslide, where the first set of rehabilitation houses are being handed over to survivors nearly two years later. Victims expressed relief at receiving homes but acknowledge their grief remains. The district faces multiple unresolved issues: 18% of the population belongs to tribal communities like the Paniyas, Kuruchiyas, and Adiyas, who report political neglect and lack of basic amenities. Members of the Adiya community said politicians only visit during elections and fail to address their concerns. The report also highlights the severe man-animal conflict affecting farmers and coffee planters, with wild elephant attacks destroying crops despite expensive electric fencing. Pending compensation for deaths, injuries, and crop damage runs into crores. Political leaders criticise both state and central governments for inadequate funding, with no package announced despite Prime Minister's visit. The district, a traditional Congress stronghold, awaits solutions as elections approach.