Idukki: The protest of Mariyakutty, who took to the streets to beg for alms with an earthen pot to get welfare pension, has yielded results. But, Mariyakutty responded to the media that she is not happy about getting the pension. Mariyakutty, a native of Irunoorekkar, Idukki was given a one-month pension on Tuesday. Adimali Service Cooperative Bank officials came in person and handed over one month’s pension to Mariyakutty.
She said, “There are people in the society who are suffering without even getting a month’s pension. They cannot play this game with the poor people. The government is deceiving the people.” Mariyakutty added that if they do not get the remaining four months of pension, they will go on strike again against the government.
Mariyakutty’s friend Annakutty, who also took part in the unique protest, didn’t receive the pension. Annakutty is yet to receive a pension from the Labour Welfare Board.
Mariyakutty said that only if Pinarayi Vijayan government’s extravagance is stopped, welfare pension can be paid without delay. ‘” What is the use of getting this one month’s pension while the four-month welfare pension is delayed,” Mariyakutty asked. “Is it enough for me alone to get the pension? People are suffering without food or medicines. I am protesting for the public. Not only me but all those who are yet to get their pensions should get their pension. Don’t fool poor people like us by just giving a little. What can we buy for this little amount? We need to buy things for daily needs and pay our debts,” asks an enraged Mariyakutty.
“Why is there a Chief Minister and other ministers? It is to solve the problems of the people, right? Who are they fooling with their power? They have fooled us before also by promising us that they will disburse the remaining amount soon. We might stand with the BJP and the Muslim League. We will stand with those who solve our misery. Ministers can live in luxury but shouldn’t we get to have our basic things to live,” asks the overwhelmed Mariyakutty.
“Pinarayi was brought to power by the working class. Pinarayi should say who a worker is. When Pinarayi comes, nobody will be allowed to stay. The CPI(M) soldiers will be with him. So nobody dares to go to meet him. We are scared of our lives. If you don’t know how to rule, you should step down and let the ones who knows to lead. I will approach the court for justice. I want what is said to be mine. I will distribute it to all those people who have stood by me,” said Mariyakutty.
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