Kerala’s Claims of Eradicated Poverty Under Scrutiny

The Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has heavily criticized the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), accusing them of fraudulently claiming to have eradicated extreme poverty in the state. Opposition leader V D Satheesan pointed to discrepancies between state and central data, questioning the criteria used to classify around 64,006 families as no longer in extreme poverty.

He raised concerns that this political maneuver comes just before the local body elections, suggesting it might influence voter sentiment. Satheesan warned that if the state prematurely declares an end to extreme poverty, it could jeopardize benefits for Antyodaya Anna Yojana cardholders, impacting around 5.9 lakh families.

The LDF is set to announce Kerala's freedom from extreme poverty on November 1. Still, Satheesan argued for transparency regarding the methodology and potential involvement of the Planning Board and Statistical Department. He also urged prominent personalities to reconsider attending the event, labeling the government’s actions as hypocritical.