There has been a lot of emphasis on the display of social solidarity and the human spirit in Kerala but the question often glossed over is about the political system that fostered it (Editorial page, “Rescue, relief and renewal”, August 28).
Over decades, a sense of social solidarity has been fostered in India’s lone communist-ruled State — home to a religious demographic which would be considered a tinderbox in the rest of India. The rapid mobilisation of resources and solidarity by Malayalis across the world speaks of an intangible quality that goes beyond the normative societal behaviour. Societal behaviour is moulded by predominant ideologies in the region and credit must be given where it is due.
Noel Therattil,
New Delhi
What created the magic is a perfect mix of education and political awakening whereby such a citizenry is fully aware of its rights and responsibilities — a boon to any democracy. It is this enviable case of camaraderie and mass power that binds a nation state. Such a secular fabric must stay in place and be emulated across the nation especially in times of divisive politics.
Anjali B.,
Thiruvananthapuram
