Endosulphan; The curse of Kerala
Endosulphan has become a serious issue as it is responsible for many deformities and even death in the area were it is sprayed. In 2001, the Achutan committee found that spraying endosulphan is harmful. A study by Habibullah N Sayed of the national institute of occupational health, in the same year, concluded that genetic and reproductive disorders resulted by the use of endosulphan. From mental retardation, deformity to death, this pesticide has affected thousands in Kasargod district. The endosulphan virudha samara samithi put forward 7 demands that they say are non negotiable
- Ban the pesticide throughout the country & proclaim Kasargod a pesticide-free district.
- Prosecute PCK which is responsible for Endosulphan spraying.
- At least Rs10 lakh to each of the families of the victims. Also minimum monthly pension of Rs5000.
- Distribute the PCK-owned land to the families of the victims.
- Provide adequate rehabitation package for the victims. Build homes for homeless.
- Construct hospitals & sanatoriums in the 11 panchayaths.
- Provide govt jobs to at least one eligible member of the families of the victims