#Poverty-free state
Kerala is a State drowning in debt and living off borrowed money like a college student on credit cards. But now at a grand spectacle it is suddenly blowing trumpets and unfurling banners to declare itself poverty-free!
And who is better to certify this miracle than three millionaire film legends descending like a celestial audit committee. Mammootty, Mohanlal, and Kamal Haasan together declare “end of extreme poverty” in Kerala.
Anyone who dares to point out that a family can slip into poverty the moment a flood hits, or a medical emergency strikes, is conveniently labelled “anti-development.” Forget data, forget reality, a celebratory PR event is clearly more nutritious than food kits. The State is to keep rejecting from the Centre, Kerala Piravi gift to Keralites.
And let us applaud the admirable gender equality on display, that is, three men representing the triumphant march of the poor to prosperity! Truly visionary. Why bother with women, self-help women collectives, or the actual beneficiaries of social welfare when we can have red carpets and movie stars? After all, a State government that refuses many Central schemes but freely queues up for loans must prove its genius at financial wizardry. Solving poverty by proclamation is a better idea
In Kerala ordinary families are struggling with inflation, unemployment, and post-flood rebuilding. But here we stand, watching the ruling front declare victory while reality scratches its head, wondering whether to laugh or cry.
Of course, people need not worry. If poverty returns tomorrow, perhaps another superstar, may be Messi, will come for an inauguration to fix it.
- K A Solaman
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