As a proud son of Kannur district in Kerala, a region that shares its border with the picturesque yet challenging terrain of Wayanad, I am deeply rooted in the agricultural heritage of our land. Hailing from a family of farmers, with my father tilling the same soil that his ancestors did, I intimately understand the struggles and aspirations of those who toil tirelessly to feed our nation. My name is Albert Valuvettickal, and I am not just a storyteller; I am a voice for the farmers who endure hardships that often go unnoticed.
The recent events unfolding in Wayanad, where farmers and villagers have taken to the streets to demand justice and support, resonate deeply with me. The tragic loss of lives due to man-animal conflict underscores the grim reality faced by farmers across Kerala and beyond. The struggles of our brethren in Wayanad are a reflection of the systemic neglect and apathy that plague our agricultural communities.
As I pen these words, I stand in solidarity with the protesters who demand more than hollow promises from both the Kerala government and the Central government. The tragic death of Paul, an innocent victim of an elephant attack, is not just a statistic; it is a stark reminder of the urgent need for concrete action to address the plight of farmers.
The demands put forth by the protesters – a substantial solatium for the families of the deceased, permanent government jobs, educational support, and debt relief – are not unreasonable. They are essential steps towards ensuring the dignity and security of those who feed our nation. Yet, instead of empathizing with the plight of the farmers, both the Kerala government and the Central government have chosen to offer token gestures and empty assurances.
The Kerala government’s response, marked by bureaucratic red tape and half-hearted promises, falls short of addressing the immediate needs of the affected families. The lack of accountability and transparency only exacerbates the sense of disillusionment and frustration among farmers who have long been neglected by those in power.
Similarly, the Central government’s indifference to the plight of farmers is a glaring indictment of its misplaced priorities. While rhetoric about agricultural reforms and rural development abounds, the ground reality remains unchanged for millions of farmers who struggle to make ends meet. The failure to enact meaningful policies that address the root causes of agrarian distress is a betrayal of the trust placed in our elected representatives.
As a son of the soil, I refuse to remain silent in the face of injustice. I refuse to accept the status quo that perpetuates the marginalization of farmers and undermines their contributions to our society. It is time for action, not empty promises. It is time for our leaders to listen to the voices of the marginalized and prioritize the welfare of those who sustain our nation’s food security.
To my fellow storytellers, activists, and citizens of conscience, I urge you to join me in amplifying the voices of farmers across Kerala and beyond. Let us hold our governments accountable and demand the justice and dignity that every farmer deserves. Together, we can build a future where farmers are not just beneficiaries of policies but active participants in shaping their own destinies.
Sincerely,
Albert Valuvettickal
storyteller.albert@gmail.com