The controversy surrounding Kerala’s devastating 2018 floods has ignited a fierce political battle between Mathew Kuzhalnadan and Mathew T. Thomas, who are contesting from different constituencies. Kuzhalnadan, representing the Congress in Ernakulam district, has alleged that the floods were “man-made,” citing a meeting chaired by the Water Resources Minister as evidence. He claims that directives were given to remove soil near the Thottappally spillway before the rains, suggesting a focus on mineral sand over flood preparedness.
In response, Thomas, a former Water Resources Minister and candidate from Thiruvalla, has dismissed these allegations as “false propaganda” orchestrated by the UDF ahead of the 2026 elections. He attributes the 2018 floods to heavy rainfall, supported by studies from institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology. Thomas clarifies that mining permissions fall under the Industries Department, not Water Resources, and refutes any involvement in mineral sand activities by the company mentioned.
The clash between the two candidates highlights how natural disasters like floods have become a significant political battleground, with each side aiming to influence public opinion as the election approaches.
