CPI(M) Polit Bureau has issued the following statement on September 24

THE central government has informed the Supreme Court that the National Disaster Management Authority has recommended payment of Rs 50,000 as ex gratia compensation for the families of those who have suffered Covid deaths.  However, this amount is to be paid out of the State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) by the state governments.

It is not proper to burden the state governments to bear the expense of compensation for Covid deaths. SDRF has to cater to all other disaster-related expenditure, including tackling Covid.  Moreover, the state governments are facing a serious resource crunch.

The tackling of the Covid pandemic is primarily a central effort along with the state governments. The protocols and guidelines for tackling the pandemic have all been formulated through Central authorities. Therefore, the centre must bear the main responsibility for providing compensation to Covid victims. The Supreme Court is still to pass the final orders in the case. Primary responsibility of the centre must be ensured.