Relief for endosulfan victims
Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Wednesday announced that all those suffering from diseases caused by the endosulfan pesticide in two taluks in Dakshina Kannada would get a compensation of Rs 50,000 each.
In addition, Yeddyurappa said he would sanction a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 each to those who suffer physical deformities consequent upon the spraying of the pesticide in the two taluks.
Responding to demands raised by former minister and BJP member Shobha Karandlaje in the Assembly, Yeddyurappa said a school would be opened for the physically challenged children there. Medical treatment, too, would be extended to them, the chief minister said.
In six to seven villages of Belthangady and Puttur taluks, 137 people have been rendered physically or mentally challenged following the spraying of endosulfan pesticides on cashew crops between 1980 and 2000. The pesticide also claimed the lives of 37 people.
