Recovering from Disaster: Kerala needs Unity of the Two Main Political Forces like Never Before

Kerala has long been a symbol of hope on India’s development scene, an inspiration to other states to achieve more in crucial areas of education and health. Even though some critical shortcomings in its development model have also been revealed, more so in recent times, on the whole the people of Kerala deserve rich praise for contributing much that is invaluable for India.

Hence it is a matter of deep concern not just for Kerala but for the entire nation that floods and landslides have inflicted such serious damage in recent times, followed ironically by water scarcity in some areas. It will require a huge effort to recover. There are severe resources constraints. Given the uncertainties in times of climate change it can not be taken for granted that only favourable weather conditions will be present in the recovery years. One can say that it is a situation of unprecedented difficulties for Kerala.

Keeping this in view, can the two main political forces—the Congress and the Left Front— consider establishing a broad political unity for a period of at least one year? During this period, these two main political parties and all their members should keep aside their political differences so that they can devote all their combined energy and creativity to the reconstruction efforts. During the Lok Sabha polls, the two main political parties can agree to divide the existing seats on the basis of equality, while perhaps keeping aside one or more seats for independent, neutral candidates who can help the cause of this wider unity for reconstruction.

This wider unity will help to increase the sincerity, honesty and deep commitment of the task of reconstruction and rehabilitation. This will also help to create conducive conditions in which deep reflection and introspection on correcting mistakes and rethinking development priorities can take place in a much better way.

The author is a freelance journalist who has been involved with several social movements and initiatives.