Kerala CM defends flood response, denies helicopter cost

After heavy rains in Kerala, the state’s Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan said the government handled the floods well and there were no mistakes.

He said 316 camps were set up to help more than 11,000 people, and 15 people died while 7 are still missing.

The government used boats, helicopters and army help to rescue people.

Families who lost loved ones will get money for funeral costs and a big payment for the loss.

Satheesan also said the helicopter he used to visit his father‑in‑law cost nothing to the state and that rumors about the state’s dams overflowing were false.

He criticized the opposition for spreading these rumors and for saying he had taken a lunch break during the crisis.