Kanker, Chhattisgarh : Amid growing concerns over a malaria outbreak in the Ravghat region of Kanker district, a delegation of the District Congress Committee visited the affected areas and submitted a memorandum to the District Collector, demanding immediate intervention to control the spread of the disease and improve healthcare services.
The move comes after two reported malaria-related deaths in the region in recent days, prompting heightened concern among residents and public health authorities.
Congress Leaders Meet Affected Families
The delegation was led by Rajesh Tiwari, National Secretary of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), and Basant Yadav, President of the Kanker District Congress Committee.
During the visit, the leaders interacted with affected residents and expressed concern over the increasing number of malaria cases in the district.
The memorandum urged the district administration to take immediate and comprehensive measures to prevent further spread of the disease and strengthen healthcare services in the affected villages.
Demand for High-Level Inquiry
The Congress delegation referred to the reported deaths of children due to malaria at the Mardapoti Ashram, calling for a high-level investigation into the incident.
The memorandum demanded:
- A thorough inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths.
- Action against officials found responsible for any negligence.
- Financial assistance to the families of the deceased in accordance with government norms.
The party stated that accountability and timely intervention are essential to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Call for Comprehensive Malaria Control Measures
Highlighting the seriousness of the outbreak, the Congress leaders urged the administration to launch a special malaria control campaign across the district.
The memorandum recommended several immediate public health measures, including:
- Regular fogging operations
- Insecticide spraying in affected areas
- Organizing health camps
- Distribution of mosquito nets in ashrams and student hostels
- Deployment of adequate doctors, medical staff, and ambulance services
- Ensuring sufficient availability of medicines and other healthcare resources
The party emphasized that strengthening healthcare infrastructure is essential for controlling the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Employment and Development Also Raised
Beyond healthcare concerns, the Congress delegation also called for accelerated development initiatives in the Ravghat region.
The memorandum urged the administration to:
- Create employment opportunities for local youth.
- Give priority to local residents in permanent job opportunities.
- Speed up infrastructure and development projects in the area.
Demand for Transparent Use of CSR and DMF Funds
Rajesh Tiwari also stressed the need for transparent utilization of funds available under:
- Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
- District Mineral Foundation (DMF)
He said these funds should be used on a priority basis for:
- Rural infrastructure development
- Public healthcare improvements
- Employment generation
- Welfare of communities affected by mining activities
According to him, effective utilization of these resources could significantly improve living conditions in the region.
Congress Warns of Further Protest
Speaking during the visit, Rajesh Tiwari stated that the party would continue to raise the concerns of malaria-affected residents before the government and district administration.
He emphasized that patients must receive timely and quality medical treatment, and warned that the party would consider launching a public agitation if adequate corrective measures are not implemented.
Health Department on Alert
The rise in malaria cases and the reported fatalities have placed the Health Department on alert, with authorities expected to intensify surveillance and disease-control measures in vulnerable areas.
The situation has underscored the need for coordinated efforts involving public health agencies, local administration, and community participation to contain the outbreak.
Key Highlights
- A Congress delegation visited malaria-affected Ravghat in Kanker district and submitted a memorandum to the District Collector.
- The visit followed two reported malaria-related deaths in the region.
- The delegation was led by AICC National Secretary Rajesh Tiwari and District Congress President Basant Yadav.
- The party demanded a high-level inquiry into the reported deaths at Mardapoti Ashram and sought compensation for the affected families.
- Congress called for a special malaria control campaign, including fogging, insecticide spraying, health camps, mosquito net distribution, and enhanced healthcare facilities.
- The memorandum also urged the administration to provide employment opportunities for local youth and accelerate regional development.
- The party sought transparent utilization of CSR and DMF funds for healthcare, infrastructure, and community welfare.
- Congress stated it would continue raising the issue and may launch an agitation if effective action is not taken.
Source: Memorandum submitted by the District Congress Committee to the Kanker District Administration, statements made by AICC National Secretary Rajesh Tiwari, and information regarding the malaria situation in the Ravghat region of Kanker district, Chhattisgarh.
