Why Celebrities Donate to Kerala Flood Victims but Not to Maharashtra Farmers

Why Celebrities Donate to Kerala Flood Victims but Not to Maharashtra Farmers

Introduction to the Disasters

India frequently faces natural calamities that can be categorized into momentary and long-term disasters. Kerala's flood, which struck suddenly, required immediate assistance, whereas Maharashtra's drought is a protracted battle against nature. Handling such calamities requires diverse strategies, from short-term support to long-term policy initiatives.

Differing Contexts of the Disasters

The urgency of Kerala's disaster prompted an immediate response, with celebrities and individuals across India lending their support to Kerala flood victims. In contrast, Maharashtra's farmers face a more systemic and long-term challenge.

The phrase 'Kerala's surgical strike' captures the sudden and intense nature of the flood, which required rapid response and immediate support. On the other hand, the drought in Maharashtra is a slow and relentless battle, necessitating a long-term policy approach to address the root causes of the water crisis.

Government Policies and Celebrity Support

While both Kerala and Maharashtra face significant challenges, the responses from the government and the public have diverged.

Maharashtra's government, under the banner of BJP, has been criticized for its stance on farmers. To many, the long-term support needed for farmers is seen as an anti-national activity because of the party's alleged pro-business policies.

Celebrities, including those from Bollywood and the film industry, have their own charitable foundations, such as the SRK's Meer Foundation. This foundation focuses on providing educational support to the children of poor farmers, ensuring they have access to better opportunities.

Impact on Farmers and Celebrities

Donations to relief funds for disaster victims are typically tax-exempt. However, if donations are made to support farmers, the funds might be used for purposes beyond direct support, such as government publicity or other unofficial activities. This raises questions about the effectiveness and transparent use of funds.

The Modi government, in particular, faces criticism for its handling of the drought in Maharashtra. There are allegations that the government has not declared the drought as a national disaster and has denied relief from the UN as a form of retribution against Kerala.

The global community and, notably, celebrities, have rallied to Kerala's cause, emphasizing the importance of their support and the poor governance and inefficiency behind the farmers' struggles in Maharashtra. While it's commendable to address the needs of the Kerala flood victims, the plight of Maharashtra's farmers should not be overlooked.

Conclusion

The situation in Kerala and Maharashtra is complex and multifaceted. While the immediate attention to Kerala's floods is crucial, the ongoing challenges faced by farmers in Maharashtra require immediate and sustained action from the government and society. The support of celebrities and individuals, though appreciated, should also be directed towards systemic change and policy reform rather than just immediate relief.