A sense of fear has gripped Kerala following Friday night’s demonstrations and public rallies across the State by activists of the Socialist Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the frontal organisation of the banned Popular Front of India.
The rally held by thousands of SDPI workers carrying torches raised provocative slogans against the Central Government and India and expressed solidarity with Hamas, which was described by the rallyists as angels of peace. However, despite the rallies against Israel, there is a strong pro-Israeli wind blowing across Kerala, especially among Christians.
“A section of the media and political commentators are trying to portray Israel and Jews as villains and this is highly objectionable. These people do not know the history of Israel or the Jews,” said Dr John Joseph, a medical doctor and highly respected community leader for his selfless service.
“It is time the Centre banned even the SDPI as this is not the first time they are holding such rallies and raising provocative slogans against humanity,” said a prominent CPI(M) leader who did not want his name to be quoted for obvious reasons.
The CPI(M) leadership has gone public by expressing their support to Hamas and terming the Israeli attack as acts of terrorism. For the first time in Kerala’s history, an outfit has requested expatriates working in Israel to stay put and not to return to the State at this critical juncture. The Marxists had swept the 2004 Lok Sabha polls from Kerala by displaying the pictures of Ahmed Yasin, the Hamas chief who was killed by the Israeli Army.
Christian Association and Alliance for Social Action (CASA) urged Keralites working in Israel not to leave the Jewish nation at this critical juncture.
Kevin Peter, president, CASA, reminded Keralites working in Israel that the promised land required their services very badly and they should not leave that country now.
“Israel is facing a serious situation from outside forces. Many have lost their near and dear ones while there are thousands of injured people requiring medical aid. Those of you who are working in fields like telecommunication, transport, health care, trauma care and as home nurses should show your love and affection to Israel by remaining in that country and focusing on your field of work. Israel needs you and your service,” said Peter.
He also told the expatriates working in Israel that the CASA was making all efforts to protect their interests.
“The Union Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is our only hope and we have been told by the Centre that the Modi Government is leaving no stones unturned to ensure your security and safety. Please understand that The Kerala Government is incapable of doing any help other than making you give up your job and return to the State. Israel is India’s friendly country and past instances tell us that they are equally concerned about your well- being,” Peter signed off with this statement.
Recruiting agents charge anything between `2 million to `3 million for jobs like nurses and home nurses in Israel.
Most of the job seekers have mortgaged their properties to pay off the agents and if they choose to return home, they will be facing debt trap and an uncertain future.
