Wow! Another Harthal

Kerala is going to face another harthal on Friday, 29 April 2011. Harthal is conducted by the ruling party. The strike is against central government's attitude of supporting Endosulfan, a highly poisonous insecticide that has affected the health and growth of a mass in Kazargode. Interestingly, other parties except Congress have supported this movement. The reason for conducting this strike is very significant. But have Keralites observed a strike in its real sense?

Harthals are always days to celebrate in 'God's Own Country'. All will be set to enjoy the off day with drinks and special food. Sleeping till noon, drinking, watching TV and eating pop corns- that is what is called harthal for a Malayali. Local channels will broadcast new movies to increase their TRP rate on this day. Companies and educational institutions have declared holiday on Friday because of the strike. Most of the people who work far away from their native will be back at home to enjoy the holiday. This time, they are getting three days off since the next two days is already off for many. So it is really a small vacation time.

In other states, harthal is not even cared by public. It is just another usual day for people there. Any political party can observe strike here. People accept it full heartedly not because they are so enthusiastic to react against social injustice; but the laziness to go out and work. So, in Kerala, politicians know their duty is finished by simply announcing the day of strike. And it is sure that people of this state will make it a huge success by enjoying themselves at home and thus keeping all the lanes empty!