Introduction
From 1957, Kerala has been a unique political landscape in India, with its first non-Congress government being an elected communist government. This political journey has fostered a stringent relationship between Kerala and the central government. Various perceptions and policies have contributed to this strained relationship, leading to a persistent focus on Kerala by the central government. This article delves into the reasons why Kerala is continually targeted by the central government and explores the implications of this focus.
The Political Undertones of Targeting
Since the emergence of the first communist government in Kerala in 1957, the relationship between the state and the central government has been marked by political animosity and regulatory interventions. The non-Congress government in a time when the Congress held significant influence and the rise to power of a communist-led regime created a rift. Subsequently, the BJP, which lacks a strong presence in the region, has also developed a disdain for Kerala. This has led to a situation where all central government entities target Kerala, regardless of their political affiliations.
The seating of a non-Keralite, particularly one from Kashmir, in the state's parliament further exacerbates this situation. The act of electing such candidates is seen as a betrayal of local interests, leading to increased scrutiny and interventions from central authorities.
Economic and Developmental Impact
The central government's approach to Kerala is also influenced by the state's performance in sustainable development and governance. Kerala tops the Sustainable Development Index (SDI) since 2017, highlighting its robust governance and developmental achievements. Democratic governance under the communist regime has garnered significant global attention, which has caused discomfort among certain right-wing factions.
One of the key areas of focus is Kerala's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. The state’s comprehensive and accessible medical infrastructure, particularly the treatment of patients in government hospitals, sets it apart from other regions, including Gujarat. This has shown that a government-run healthcare system can provide quality and affordable healthcare, especially during times of crisis. The contrast with Gujarat's heavily privatized healthcare system, which often leaves the middle class vulnerable, further highlights Kerala's unique strengths.
Technological and Policing Innovations
In recent years, Kerala has also demonstrated innovation in technology and policing. The state's police force has developed an app to locate vaccines across the country, showcasing their adaptability and foresight. Additionally, it was one of the first to use drones to implement lockdowns in rural areas, demonstrating a proactive approach to governance. These initiatives reflect Kerala's commitment to modernization and efficiency, despite limited resources.
However, despite these advancements, there are still challenges. The state’s focus on education and technology in the 1990s, particularly with the establishment of India’s first information park, seems to have plateaued. The state has not seen significant advancements in the subsequent years, primarily due to political apathy and shortsighted policies. As a result, a large number of college students are leaving Kerala for higher studies, making it difficult for the state to retain its talent.
Conclusion
The persistent targeting of Kerala by central government entities is a complex issue rooted in political and developmental dynamics. Kerala's unique political history, innovative governance, and social achievements continue to drive interactions with the central government. While the state excels in many areas, it also faces challenges that require sustained political and policy attention.