Thiruvananthapuram: In a kind gesture, a Latvian national, Ilze Skromane, whose sister was raped and killed in Kovalam last year, donated toward the Kerala Chief Minister’s Distress Relief Fund.
Responding to this, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan hailed her move and said that her act was unparalleled. He further said that she had a big heart as she stood by the State during a difficult time. Vijayan said her message will a source of inspiration to the people of the state.
In his Facebook post, Vijayan informed that from Ireland, Ilze had sent a portion of her earnings to the CMDRF and expressed solidarity with the people of Kerala.
Vijayan also posted her video in which she addresses people of Kerala. “Hello My Dear Keralites, I shot this video to tell you that I have not forgotten you. I have been watching you closely.. the hard times you are going through at this moment. Pl note that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I really hope, soon this hardships will be behind you and you will be soon able to re-build your lives. I am sending you all my love from the other side of the ocean. So stay strong,” she said, adding that she hoped to visit the State some day.
In April 2018, Ilze’s elder sister Liga had come to Kerala. She went missing from Kovalam and her body was found days later. Two drug peddlers were arrested for allegedly raping and killing her.