Writer Benyamin Slams Critics of Kerala’s Poverty Eradication, Sarcastically Suggests Sending Them to Space
Thiruvananthapuram: Noted writer Benyamin has strongly criticized those who opposed the declaration of Kerala as an extreme poverty-free state. Referring to the critics as ‘eli vanangal’ (rat bombs/firecrackers), Benyamin remarked that there is currently no other option but to request NASA to send them into space.
He further elaborated on Facebook that Kerala can be proud of becoming a global model in extreme poverty eradication, much like its achievements in literacy, people’s planning, women empowerment, and health indicators.
In his detailed Facebook post, Benyamin recalled an incident from a few years ago. He was waiting for a train at Aluva railway station one night when he met a retired government official. During their conversation, the official informed him that the government’s plans to declare the state free of extreme poverty were almost complete. However, the Chief Minister had instructed another thorough field verification to ensure that no one was inadvertently overlooked due to administrative shortcomings or errors before the official declaration. The official mentioned that their mission was to identify if anyone had been left out, anticipating that critics might jump on any perceived flaw once the declaration was made, and the Chief Minister was determined to address such possibilities.
Benyamin noted how accurately the official’s apprehension was proven on this significant day by certain “AC room ‘rat bombs’.” He mocked these self-proclaimed scholars, who seem unaware of what has transpired in Kerala over the past ten years, for now demanding proof. He challenged them, saying, “Oh esteemed ones, if you step out of your AC rooms and walk among the people, experiencing a bit of sunlight, you will realize how much Kerala has transformed.” He emphasized that the government’s declaration of an extreme poverty-free Kerala is based on the unwavering determination of those who worked day and night, and “we, the people, do not need your worthless certificates.” He added that every society has some “old aunts” who oppose any good initiative, and these critics should be viewed in the same light.
Benyamin concluded by reiterating that just like literacy, people’s planning, women empowerment, and health indices, Kerala’s achievement in extreme poverty eradication is a source of pride and joy, making it a role model for the world. He reaffirmed his sarcastic plea, stating, “For these ‘rat bombs,’ there’s no other way but to request NASA to send them into space for now.”