Cyberattack on M. Leelavathy Over Gaza Remark Sparks Outrage

Quick Summary:

• renowned Malayalam literary critic M. Leelavathy faced cyberattacks after expressing concern about “starving children of Gaza” during her 98th birthday last week.
• In response,she stated that her remarks were born out of “motherly affection” for children,irrespective of country,caste,or religion. She emphasized that ther was no political intent behind her statements and recalled similar sentiments regarding starving Wayanad children in 2019.
• Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty expressed solidarity with Ms. Leelavathy in a social media post, calling her remarks humane and condemning abusive cyberattacks against her. He highlighted Kerala’s cultural debt to Ms. Leelavathy’s contributions to literature and called for collective resistance against such attacks.
• The Old students’ Association of Maharajas College issued a statement in support of Ms. Leelavathy, urging strong opposition to the online abuse targeting her.

Indian Opinion Analysis:
The controversy surrounding M. Leelavathy’s comments reflects broader societal challenges tied to cyberspace discourse and public figures’ vulnerability to misinterpretation or targeted harassment online. Her remarks-framed around empathy for children suffering from starvation-showcase universal humanitarian values that transcend political or geographical boundaries but were met with vitriolic responses suggesting polarized interpretations over sensitive global issues like Gaza.

Minister Sivankutty’s intervention underlines the importance of protecting cultural icons from unfounded attacks while fostering respect for differing perspectives within society-a principle vital for maintaining Kerala’s vibrant intellectual ethos rooted in inclusivity and dialog.

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