CPI(M) warns of massive stir over alleged move to scrap LIFE Mission

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] has condemned reports of the United Democratic Front (UDF) government considering to put an end to the LIFE housing mission launched by the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government. The State will witness a massive protest movement if this "politically motivated and anti-people" step is not withdrawn, said the statement.

However, Minister for Local Self Governments K.M.Shaji has denied the reports. He said that the UDF government has not made a decision to discontinue to the project. No step will be taken without conducting a proper study. Under the LIFE Mission, five lakh houses have become a reality, while more than one lakh houses are in various stages of construction. Along with this, more than two lakh families with land are waiting to get houses in the next phase in the order of priority. Apart from these, there are families without land. "The UDF government is taking a step that will shatter all their hopes. The BJP and the Union government have been constantly trying to sabotage the LIFE Mission by trying to impose branding and other means. In continuation of this, the UDF is now trying to eliminate the project itself," said the statement. According to the CPI(M), LIFE beneficiaries and the order of priority were finalised by inviting applications according to certain criteria, giving special consideration to the weaker sections and after discussions at the gram sabhas and panchayats. All the land-owning applicants in 2017 were provided houses. Now, houses are being provided to the applicants in the second phase of LIFE. Till early March, 5,00,364 houses out of 6,04,046 houses allocated through the LIFE Mission had been completed. The remaining 1,03,682 houses are in various stages of construction. Kerala has also given the highest amount to the largest number of people as part of the government housing scheme in the country. The State is giving ₹6 lakh in Scheduled Tribe shelters and ₹4 lakh to the general category.

The Secretariat called for a strong protest against the attempts to disrupt all social progress and achievements of the State.