One important aspect the 'national' media is not covering about #Kerala is how the govt's empathetic approach helped in preventing stigma and ensured proper reporting of cases.
1/8
1/8
I still remember how Malayalis were cursing the Ranni family when it was revealed that they were positive and skipped screening. When a detailed route map was made, there were even talks of socially boycotting the family. Social media was filled with similar posts.
2/8
2/8
In any other state, the govt would've made them a scapegoat. And such targeting would've caused many symptomatic patients to stay away from testing. The fear and stigma is the root cause of various incidents of violence reported in other states.
3/8
3/8
Fortunately, none of these happened in Kerala and all the credit goes to the govt.
The govt even came up with different slogans. "Social Distancing" was replaced with "Physical distancing and social solidarity.”
4/8
The govt even came up with different slogans. "Social Distancing" was replaced with "Physical distancing and social solidarity.”
4/8
Kerala's dashboard never had a 'single source' or 'conference' column. Jamaat attendees were traced even before the 'national' media sensationalized it. CM mentioned the same thing while speaking to Republic TV.
5/8
5/8
Though there were talks of taking action against culprits, the public anger against Ranni family was doused off slowly. Govt focused on stopping the spread rather than bringing up the same issue.
Govt also arranged for counseling of patients, helping them overcome stigma.
6/8
Govt also arranged for counseling of patients, helping them overcome stigma.
6/8
The migrant issue was also dealt with incredible maturity, helped by the local administration.
CM used the term 'guest workers' instead of 'migrant laborers', and the entire media started using the same.
7/8
CM used the term 'guest workers' instead of 'migrant laborers', and the entire media started using the same.
7/8
IMO, this humane approach went a long way in ensuring KL's recovery.
For those who've never been to other states, this might seem normal. But for Pravasi Malayalis like me, the difference is pretty clear.
Kerala is lucky to have such a government!
8/8
For those who've never been to other states, this might seem normal. But for Pravasi Malayalis like me, the difference is pretty clear.
Kerala is lucky to have such a government!
8/8
