KANNUR: Visuals of migrant workers being coached on how to raise political slogans in support of CPM’s ‘Vikasana Munnetta Jatha’ have taken social media by storm, adding an unexpected dash of humour to Kerala’s otherwise tightly scripted political season.
The northern region ‘Vikasana Munnetta Jatha’ is led by CPM state secretary M V Govindan, and the now-viral ‘slogan rehearsal’ reportedly took place in Pinarayi, the hometown of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. In the videos, local CPM leaders are seen patiently training migrant workers on how to raise slogans — in Malayalam and Hindi — praising the yatra and its leader, almost like a political crash course, complete with pronunciation guidance.
Around 50 migrant workers, holding banners with Hindi writing, were taught the correct rhythm, tone and timing of slogans before they enthusiastically raised them in unison, offering a grand welcome to the yatra captain.
The reception was organised with migrant workers taking centre stage, turning the event into a rare blend of political theatre and linguistic gymnastics.
The local residents who witnessed the event noted that while Kerala prides itself on spontaneous political participation, this particular welcome came with rehearsals. Social media users were quick to react, joking that the migrant workers seemed more disciplined than seasoned party cadre, and that Kerala politics has officially entered the “practice makes perfect” era.
Meanwhile, the CPM, in an official statement, said the guest workers attended the rally as a show of “gratitude” for the support extended to them by the state. A few local leaders have rubbished the social media controversy over allegations that the party had paid money to bring the guest workers to the event.
An expression of gratitude by workers: CPM
The CPM stated that many migrant workers in Kerala view the state not merely as a place of employment, but as their own homeland. “Those who arrived in Kerala in search of work during difficult phases of their lives have not faced disappointment.
The government and the people have consistently embraced and supported this working community. In return for the care and affection shown by the land that gave them shelter, they express their gratitude and solidarity by taking part in the march,” the statement said. The reception extended by migrant workers to the LDF March that arrived in Dharmadam (Kannur) was an unforgettable experience, it said.
Meanwhile, the Vikasana Munnetta Jatha reached Wayanad, where it received its first welcome at Thalippuzha in Mananthavady. This was followed by a procession and public meeting in Mananthavady town, where Govindan delivered the keynote address. Senior LDF district and state leaders attended the programme.
The yatra continued its journey through Wayanad on Friday and will enter Kozhikode district after the reception in Kalpetta on Saturday.