Thiruvananthapuram: The demand for a caste census in Kerala has reached a fever pitch as thousands of activists from various communities under the Welfare party banner converged on Thiruvananthapuram city to protest and voice their concerns.
The protest, organized by the Welfare Party, saw the Kerala secretariat surrounded for hours, highlighting the growing dissatisfaction with the leftist government's policies.
The protesters, fuelled by demands for extending aided appointments to the Public Service Commission (PSC) and advocating for proportional representation in government roles, directed strong criticism at the ruling leftist government. This marks a significant moment in India as the state witnesses the first implementation of the economically weaker section (EWS) reservation.
The focal point of the protest was the call for a caste census in Kerala, with activists urging the government to address historical injustices. The dissatisfaction was palpable as slogans echoed disappointment over the government's reluctance to implement proportionate reservation in government employment.
State President Razak Paleri took centre stage, issuing the 'Thiruvananthapuram Declaration' that demanded social justice. The declaration emphasized the importance of historical awareness and urged caste-community organizations, including the NSS, not to forget their roots.
The event was inaugurated by Welfare Party National Treasurer Atiq Rahman, with the chief guest being Dr Arvind Kumar from Jamia Millia Islamia Central University's Dr KR Narayanan Center for Dalit and Minority Studies Department in New Delhi. The gathering witnessed the participation of key figures, including Welfare Party State General Secretary Surendran Karipuzha, Vanika Vaisya Sangham State General Secretary Kuttappan Chettiar, and SDPI State President Muvattupuzha Ashraf Moulavi.
Tensions escalated as police attempted to forcefully disperse activists blocking the secretariat gates, leading to clashes between the protesters and law enforcement. The event served as a platform for various community leaders and speakers to express their concerns and demands for social justice.
Notable speakers included Dr. S. Saramangdharan, O.P. Ravindran, Jamaat-e-Islami State Secretary Shihab Pookotoor, and representatives from different community organizations. The distinguished gathering featured leaders from KPMS, RMPI, minority welfare, and various other social justice movements, creating a united front against perceived injustices.
The call for a caste census in Kerala gained further momentum as the protesters challenged Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to clarify the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM)'s national stance on the issue. The disappointment over the government's handling of reservation policies and the caste census was palpable among the protesters, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and just society.
As the protest unfolded, it became a symbol of collective discontent, bringing together leaders and activists from different walks of life. The 'Thiruvananthapuram Declaration' will likely serve as a rallying point for future movements advocating for social justice and equal representation in Kerala.