The 12th Kerala Queer Pride, scheduled for October 28 and 29 in Malappuram, has been marred by disturbing developments as the organizers report receiving threats.
Social media accounts of several members have been suspended due to mass reporting, with some individuals going so far as to force members to change their phone numbers, citing threats as the reason for these actions.
Abin R, the coordinator of the Queer Pride, expressed his concerns, stating, “In the history of the Queer Pride in the state, it is the first time we are getting such threats.”
The organizers have reached out to authorities, appealing for security measures. Abin added, “Individuals and some organisations are threatening us. We have requested the Malappuram district collector and the District Police Chief to arrange security for the Queer Pride.”
Originally planned for September 16 and 17, the event was postponed due to the Nipah virus outbreak in nearby Kozhikode. The decision to hold the event in Malappuram has apparently drawn the ire of some individuals, leading to threats against the organizers.
The organizers have identified a social media group, “Youth Empowerment Society of Kerala (Yes Kerala),” as a prominent opponent of the Queer Pride. This group has allegedly been disseminating misinformation, claiming that the event would result in the spread of AIDS in Malappuram.
Abin highlighted their concerns, saying, “We have mentioned the threat from Yes Kerala in our complaint filed to the collector and police. The state is giving us full support and guarantee for the pride parade. But the threat is looming around us.”
The situation has escalated further, with claims that one of the coordinators, Aami Neermathalam, is being stalked at her educational institution. The organizers have alleged that she is continuously followed by vehicles.
The LGBTIQA+ community has been organizing Queer Pride events in Kerala since 2010. It is noteworthy that Malappuram will be hosting this event for the first time, featuring seminars, art exhibitions, cultural programs, and more. The threats cast a shadow over what should be a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.
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