Kerala in 2025 – A Time of Hardship and Exhaustion
As the next Legislative Assembly election approaches, society stands waiting – hoping for change. The weariness visible on the face of an ordinary daily wage worker or a retired teacher is a living testimony to the frailty of the current government.
Financial Crisis – The Government is Cash-Strapped
The economic crisis that Kerala has been grappling with for years remains unresolved, with no viable solutions proposed by the government. As per the data from February 2025, state government employees received their salaries with a delay of nearly four months, and pension disbursement has become erratic. The administration survives by borrowing heavily from the market – in 2024 alone, the state took loans amounting to nearly Rs. 40,000 crore.
Increased Burden on the Public, Declining Service Standards
Due to central and state taxes, middle-class families face an additional monthly burden of Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 4,000. In return, subsidies have been slashed, and privatization in health and education has accelerated.
The third electricity tariff hike in a year comes despite substandard services. Government hospitals face a shortage of doctors. In the education sector, the freeze on teacher appointments has adversely impacted learning quality for students.
Corruption and Inaction – Governance Gone Astray
The government struggles even to spend on basic public works like road maintenance under the Rolling Fund Route. Reports from the Lokayukta and CAG point to widespread corruption in public distribution and finances. Yet the government's response remains confined to superficial inquiries and denials.
As P.J. Joseph rightly observed: “This is a majority rule, not a democratic one.” The absence of vision and discretion in governance has left the public bearing the brunt of its failures.
Employees – The Backbone of Governance Left to Crumble
Over 1.6 lakh government employees are not receiving their salaries and pensions on time. Retired teachers and nurses are forced to borrow money every month to survive – a tragic situation.
The freezing of PSC appointments has shut the doors of hope for the youth. The current government seems indifferent to the future of the unemployed.
2026 – The Year of Hope
There is one way to change this despair and misfortune – the people’s mandate. The 2026 Assembly election must not be just another political event; it must become a mass movement for change and renewal.
If Kerala is to return to the path of inclusive development, we need a government that brings strong policies and people-centric governance. Let us unite for that goal. Let us begin a united struggle in 2026 – for truth and service.
